Home Improvementhttp://www.businessinsider.com/category/home-improvement
en-usSun, 02 Aug 2015 16:29:46 -0400Sun, 02 Aug 2015 16:29:46 -0400The latest news on Home Improvement from Business Insiderhttp://static3.businessinsider.com/assets/images/bilogo-250x36-wide-rev.pngBusiness Insiderhttp://www.businessinsider.com
http://www.businessinsider.com/affordable-home-upgrades-2015-713 cheap ways to upgrade your spacehttp://www.businessinsider.com/affordable-home-upgrades-2015-7
Sat, 11 Jul 2015 10:05:00 -0400Ellen Hoffman
<p>Is your pad is feeling less than inspiring these days? Have you recently moved into a new space but haven’t gotten around to decorating it yet? Whatever the scenario, styling geniuses <a href="http://acrecreative.com/">Leanne Ford Shaffer of ACRE</a> and <a href="https://www.homepolish.com/">Allison Petty of Homepolish</a> are here to help spruce it up, affordably.</p>
<p>The interior design experts understand that not everyone has buckets of money to spend on statement furniture pieces, elaborate light fixtures, Oriental rugs, and other home accents. Instead, Ford Shaffer and Petty helped us curate 13 budget-friendly upgrades that’ll instantly elevate your abode. Scroll down for tons of styling advice and wallet-friendly suggestions.<span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><br></span></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/belgian-linen-duvet-cover-shams-b1580/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/559c37676bb3f7fc685ff6d8-400-400/img22o-1.jpg" border="0" alt="img22o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>1. Bedding</strong></p>
<p>"You don't need to be using your bedding from college just because it's not threadbare yet," &nbsp;Leanne Ford Shaffer&nbsp;of <a href="http://acrecreative.com/">ACRE</a> told us. "It's time to move on." The interior designers recommends West Elm for classic and simple bedding. "Stay away from crazy patterns or prints — even if you love them — because they date quickly and can also feel childish. My favorite is a classic all-white bed; wash the sheets a couple times before putting them on your bed. And, instead of throw pillows on your bed, just add two or three extra pillows for sleeping."<br><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><br><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/belgian-linen-duvet-cover-shams-b1580/">Belgian Linen Duvet Cover + Shams, $29.99 to $183.<br><br></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&amp;bbn=1063252&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;lo=garden&amp;pf_rd_i=1063252&amp;pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_p=2111675462&amp;pf_rd_r=15YKCF5G4GPXNH4QBQ4Z&amp;pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-2&amp;pf_rd_t=101&amp;rh=i%3Agarden%2Cn%3A1055398%2Cn%3A!1063498%2Cn%3A1063252%2Cp_n_feature_twenty_browse-bin%3A3254100011%2Cp_n_material_browse%3A316547011%2Cn%3A3732131&amp;rw_html_to_wsrp=1&amp;tag=biip_070815_affordable-home-upgrades-20&amp;linkId=7DFGRSW3QYHKJX64">Shop more white bedding here.</a></span></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/fern-wall-panel-gray-w1581/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static6.businessinsider.com/image/559c377e6bb3f79c6c5ff6d7-710-710/img13o.jpg" border="0" alt="img13o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>2. Paint and Wallpaper</strong></p>
<p>"Paint all or just one of your walls a great color," <a href="https://www.homepolish.com/">Homepolish</a> designer Allison Petty suggests. "<span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Doing this makes it look like you've made an effort to get rid of the current white paint and are approaching your space in a more considered, thoughtful manner."&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/fern-wall-panel-gray-w1581/">Chasing Paper Wall Panels in Fern, $50 to $200.</a></p>
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<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/crewel-windowpane-pillow-cover-frost-gray-sun-yellow-t1884/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/559c37976bb3f797695ff6d7-710-710/img71o-1.jpg" border="0" alt="img71o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>3. Throw Pillows</strong></span></p>
<p>"Throw pillows are a great way to add another layer to your space without spending a lot of money," Petty told us. "They can bring in color and texture and help change your space without replacing the couch."</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/graphic-patchwork-square-pillow-cover-t1886/">Graphic Patchwork Square Pillow Cover, $39</a>;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/crewel-windowpane-pillow-cover-frost-gray-sun-yellow-t1884/">Crewel Windowpane Pillow Cover, $39</a>;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/pillow-insert-20x20-b263/">Decorative Pillow Insert, $16</a>.<br></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/shop/accessories-pillows/?cm_type=gnav"><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Shop more home accents here.</span></a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/mrk-edison-style-bulbs-short-d1127/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/559c37b0ecad04361b23391f-710-710/img77o.jpg" border="0" alt="img77o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>4. Lightbulbs and Fixtures</strong></p>
<p>"Lightbulbs cost mere dollars but make a huge difference in your home," Ford says. "Pick something with slightly lower and warmer lighting to make your place feel warmer and cozier. If you live in place that you can change the fixtures, get rid of the old dated lighting fixtures."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/mrk-edison-style-bulbs-short-d1127/">Edison-Style Bulb, Short, $12</a>;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/lens-sconce-w730/">Lens Scone, $99</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/b/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;node=322525011&amp;pf_rd_i=495224&amp;pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_p=2070048342&amp;pf_rd_r=1N52XNWK4VDKYDBCS76G&amp;pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-6&amp;pf_rd_t=101&amp;tag=biip_070815_affordable-home-upgrades-20&amp;linkId=BKTH5CSFJYOUHSQK">Shop more lightbulbs and fixtures here.</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/geometry-bookends-striped-angle-d2547/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/559c37c669bedd4a1fda23cd-710-710/img91o.jpg" border="0" alt="img91o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>5. Books &amp; Small Accessories</strong></p>
<p>"<a href="http://www.amazon.com/books-used-books-textbooks/b/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;node=283155&amp;tag=biip_070815_affordable-home-upgrades-20&amp;linkId=6YXWVM3SHBKH2PJF">Books</a> add a great touch of art, design, and class to a home," according to Ford. But, since new hardcovers and paperbacks can get expensive quick, she suggests scouring garage sales, flea markets, and Goodwills instead. "Get titles and covers that appeal to you —&nbsp;then stack them on your coffee table, or that empty shelf in your apartment."</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Petty also suggests incorporating small trays, bowls, book ends, boxes, and other functional accessories into your home's decor; they serve the dual purpose of looking great and nixing clutter.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/geometry-bookends-striped-angle-d2547/">Striped Angle Geometry Bookend, $39</a>;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/square-lacquer-trays-c346/?cm_src=AutoRel2">Square Lacquer Trays, $24.99 to $29</a>.</span></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/wrh-sadie-arm-chair-h950/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/559c37e16bb3f7d6695ff6df-710-710/img3o.jpg" border="0" alt="img3o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>6. Splurge Items</strong></p>
<p>"Sometimes it's worth it to save your money for that <em>one</em> special piece, such as a great armchair in a color and fabric you love," says Petty. "Invest in pieces you can bring with you and avoid purchasing specific items that will only work for your current space."&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/wrh-sadie-arm-chair-h950/">Sadie Arm Chair, $399.</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/agate-cabinet-handle-green-d2087/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/559c37fbecad04d01e233923-710-710/img36o.jpg" border="0" alt="img36o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>7. Knobs and Hardware</strong></p>
<p>Petty's pro tip: "Swapping out knobs and other hardware allows you to 'upgrade' your cabinetry or furniture without replacing anything."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/agate-cabinet-handle-green-d2087/">Agate Cabinet Handle Set of Two, $49.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/category/hardware/shopsale-hardware.jsp#/">Shop more unique cabinet hardware here.</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/gallery-frames-black-d477/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/559c38166bb3f7196f5ff6d7-710-710/img15o.jpg" border="0" alt="img15o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>8. Frames</strong></p>
<p>You can (and should) frame anything.&nbsp;"A frame instantly elevates an item. Even the silliest of things, like your kids' macaroni art projects, will look smashing in a frame" explains Petty. "Just make sure you have a good story to tell when someone asks you about it."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/gallery-frames-black-d477/">Gallery Frames in Black, $12 to $99.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Photo-Frames/b/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;node=1063286&amp;tag=biip_070815_affordable-home-upgrades-20&amp;linkId=75NN4EGS5FYKYSHW">Shop more decorative frames here.</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/semi-circle-terrariums-c696/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/559c3832ecad049e2423391f-710-710/img13o-1.jpg" border="0" alt="img13o 1" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>9. Succulents and Fresh Flowers</strong></p>
<p>"Incorporating a fresh bouquet of flowers every week will help liven up your space, and it can be done inexpensively," Petty notes. "Stick to hardier varieties that will last longer." Terrariums with succulents arranged in them are another option, so long as you don't have a black thumb.</p>
<p>A simple glass vessel, like the ones pictured here, will display your blooms proudly.<br> <br> <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/semi-circle-terrariums-c696/">Open-Face Terrariums, $14 to $29.</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.thebouqs.com/en/">Shop fresh blooms here.</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/rustic-storage-coffee-table-g569/?cm_src=AutoRel2"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/559c4a13eab8ea06411d42cc-710-710/img81o.jpg" border="0" alt="img81o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>10. Storage</strong></p>
<p>"Incorporate storage items into your decor as much as possible — the more storage you have, the tidier and more 'thought about' your house will feel," suggests Petty.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/rustic-storage-coffee-table-g569/?cm_src=AutoRel2">Industrial Storage Coffee Table, $549 to $699</a>;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/crated-office-collection-d2348/">Crated Office Collection, $29 to $126.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;field-keywords=storage%20solutions&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;rh=n%3A1055398%2Ck%3Astorage%20solutions&amp;sprefix=storage%20solutions%2Cundefined%2C132&amp;tag=biip_070815_affordable-home-upgrades-20&amp;url=search-alias%3Dgarden&amp;linkId=4GDSYYL2XTSCD5ZA">Shop more storage solutions here.</a></p>
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<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/559c386b69bedd1722da23d6-710-710/img43o.jpg" border="0" alt="img43o" width="400" height="400"><strong>11. Window Treatments</strong></p>
<p>"Buying new panels will change the way your space looks — instantly," offers Petty. "The small adjustment will make a surprisingly big impact." They'll look a lot better and offer more privacy than bare windows.&nbsp;<br> <br> <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/cotton-canvas-bracket-geo-curtain-moonstone-t1729/">Cotton Canvas Bracket Geo Curtain in Moonshine, $39 to $59.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/shop/rugs-windows/window-panels-curtains-shades/?cm_type=gnav">Shop more window treatments here.</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/hobnail-acrylic-glassware-e1026/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/559c3886eab8ea6a5d5ff6dc-710-710/img85o.jpg" border="0" alt="img85o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>12. Matching Glassware</strong></p>
<p>"By now, I am sure your pint glass collection from bars across America is getting pretty good — I get it," says Ford. "But, it's probably time you upgraded your space with matching glassware and mugs." Matching doesn't have to mean expensive: Go to Ikea, CB2, or something other home store for sophisticated-looking pieces that won't give you chest pains if (okay, when) when they break.</p>
<p>"If you can, swing for matching dishes as well," suggests Ford. "And, again, keep it simple and avoid designs and prints for a foolproof selection."&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/hobnail-acrylic-glassware-e1026/">Hobnail Acrylic Glassware (Set of 4), $16.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.williams-sonoma.com/shop/tabletop-glassware-bar/?cm_type=gnav">Shop more tabletop essentials here.</a></p>
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<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/559c38a8eab8ea26625ff6d7-710-710/img17o.jpg" border="0" alt="img17o" width="400" height="400"><strong>13.&nbsp;Bathroom Toiletries&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>"Buy a <a href="http://www.murchison-hume.com/collections/hand-care/products/superlative-hand-soap">nice bottle of hand soap</a> for each sink," Ford urges. "Sure, its $20 instead of $4, but enjoy it. And, when it runs out you can fill it with the container cheap stuff. No one will know at that point anyway." The designer has a good point — "your soap dispensers are always out and showing, so they may as well be nice-looking."&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you can't justify the fancy-pants soap, maybe you <em>can</em> justify buying a nice-smelling diffuser or candle. Every bathroom can use one of those, too.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/clean-simple-diffuser-d3077/">Clean + Simple Diffuser, $29.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/shop/bath/?cm_type=gnav">Shop more bathroom accessories here.</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>READ THIS:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/yard-games-croquet-2015-7" >The best outdoor games to play in your backyard or at the beach next weekend</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/cuisinart-griddler-2015-6" >Cuisinart has an awesome way to cook great burgers indoors [49% off]</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/affordable-home-upgrades-2015-7#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/affordable-home-upgrades-2015-713 cheap ways to upgrade your spacehttp://www.businessinsider.com/affordable-home-upgrades-2015-7
Wed, 08 Jul 2015 11:10:00 -0400Ellen Hoffman
<p>Is your pad is feeling less than inspiring these days? Have you recently moved into a new space but haven’t gotten around to decorating it yet? Whatever the scenario, styling geniuses <a href="http://acrecreative.com/">Leanne Ford Shaffer of ACRE</a> and <a href="https://www.homepolish.com/">Allison Petty of Homepolish</a> are here to help spruce it up, affordably.</p>
<p>The interior design experts understand that not everyone has buckets of money to spend on statement furniture pieces, elaborate light fixtures, Oriental rugs, and other home accents. Instead, Ford Shaffer and Petty helped us curate 13 budget-friendly upgrades that’ll instantly elevate your abode. Scroll down for tons of styling advice and wallet-friendly suggestions.<span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><br></span></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/belgian-linen-duvet-cover-shams-b1580/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/559c37676bb3f7fc685ff6d8-400-400/img22o-1.jpg" border="0" alt="img22o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>1. Bedding</strong></p>
<p>"You don't need to be using your bedding from college just because it's not threadbare yet," &nbsp;Leanne Ford Shaffer&nbsp;of <a href="http://acrecreative.com/">ACRE</a> told us. "It's time to move on." The interior designers recommends West Elm for classic and simple bedding. "Stay away from crazy patterns or prints — even if you love them — because they date quickly and can also feel childish. My favorite is a classic all-white bed; wash the sheets a couple times before putting them on your bed. And, instead of throw pillows on your bed, just add two or three extra pillows for sleeping."<br><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><br><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/belgian-linen-duvet-cover-shams-b1580/">Belgian Linen Duvet Cover + Shams, $29.99 to $183.<br><br></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&amp;bbn=1063252&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;lo=garden&amp;pf_rd_i=1063252&amp;pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_p=2111675462&amp;pf_rd_r=15YKCF5G4GPXNH4QBQ4Z&amp;pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-2&amp;pf_rd_t=101&amp;rh=i%3Agarden%2Cn%3A1055398%2Cn%3A!1063498%2Cn%3A1063252%2Cp_n_feature_twenty_browse-bin%3A3254100011%2Cp_n_material_browse%3A316547011%2Cn%3A3732131&amp;rw_html_to_wsrp=1&amp;tag=biip_070815_affordable-home-upgrades-20&amp;linkId=7DFGRSW3QYHKJX64">Shop more white bedding here.</a></span></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/fern-wall-panel-gray-w1581/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static6.businessinsider.com/image/559c377e6bb3f79c6c5ff6d7-710-710/img13o.jpg" border="0" alt="img13o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>2. Paint and Wallpaper</strong></p>
<p>"Paint all or just one of your walls a great color," <a href="https://www.homepolish.com/">Homepolish</a> designer Allison Petty suggests. "<span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Doing this makes it look like you've made an effort to get rid of the current white paint and are approaching your space in a more considered, thoughtful manner."&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/fern-wall-panel-gray-w1581/">Chasing Paper Wall Panels in Fern, $50 to $200.</a></p>
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<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/crewel-windowpane-pillow-cover-frost-gray-sun-yellow-t1884/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/559c37976bb3f797695ff6d7-710-710/img71o-1.jpg" border="0" alt="img71o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>3. Throw Pillows</strong></span></p>
<p>"Throw pillows are a great way to add another layer to your space without spending a lot of money," Petty told us. "They can bring in color and texture and help change your space without replacing the couch."</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/graphic-patchwork-square-pillow-cover-t1886/">Graphic Patchwork Square Pillow Cover, $39</a>;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/crewel-windowpane-pillow-cover-frost-gray-sun-yellow-t1884/">Crewel Windowpane Pillow Cover, $39</a>;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/pillow-insert-20x20-b263/">Decorative Pillow Insert, $16</a>.<br></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/shop/accessories-pillows/?cm_type=gnav"><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Shop more home accents here.</span></a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/mrk-edison-style-bulbs-short-d1127/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/559c37b0ecad04361b23391f-710-710/img77o.jpg" border="0" alt="img77o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>4. Lightbulbs and Fixtures</strong></p>
<p>"Lightbulbs cost mere dollars but make a huge difference in your home," Ford says. "Pick something with slightly lower and warmer lighting to make your place feel warmer and cozier. If you live in place that you can change the fixtures, get rid of the old dated lighting fixtures."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/mrk-edison-style-bulbs-short-d1127/">Edison-Style Bulb, Short, $12</a>;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/lens-sconce-w730/">Lens Scone, $99</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/b/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;node=322525011&amp;pf_rd_i=495224&amp;pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_p=2070048342&amp;pf_rd_r=1N52XNWK4VDKYDBCS76G&amp;pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-6&amp;pf_rd_t=101&amp;tag=biip_070815_affordable-home-upgrades-20&amp;linkId=BKTH5CSFJYOUHSQK">Shop more lightbulbs and fixtures here.</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/geometry-bookends-striped-angle-d2547/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/559c37c669bedd4a1fda23cd-710-710/img91o.jpg" border="0" alt="img91o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>5. Books &amp; Small Accessories</strong></p>
<p>"<a href="http://www.amazon.com/books-used-books-textbooks/b/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;node=283155&amp;tag=biip_070815_affordable-home-upgrades-20&amp;linkId=6YXWVM3SHBKH2PJF">Books</a> add a great touch of art, design, and class to a home," according to Ford. But, since new hardcovers and paperbacks can get expensive quick, she suggests scouring garage sales, flea markets, and Goodwills instead. "Get titles and covers that appeal to you —&nbsp;then stack them on your coffee table, or that empty shelf in your apartment."</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Petty also suggests incorporating small trays, bowls, book ends, boxes, and other functional accessories into your home's decor; they serve the dual purpose of looking great and nixing clutter.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/geometry-bookends-striped-angle-d2547/">Striped Angle Geometry Bookend, $39</a>;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/square-lacquer-trays-c346/?cm_src=AutoRel2">Square Lacquer Trays, $24.99 to $29</a>.</span></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/wrh-sadie-arm-chair-h950/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/559c37e16bb3f7d6695ff6df-710-710/img3o.jpg" border="0" alt="img3o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>6. Splurge Items</strong></p>
<p>"Sometimes it's worth it to save your money for that <em>one</em> special piece, such as a great armchair in a color and fabric you love," says Petty. "Invest in pieces you can bring with you and avoid purchasing specific items that will only work for your current space."&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/wrh-sadie-arm-chair-h950/">Sadie Arm Chair, $399.</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/agate-cabinet-handle-green-d2087/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/559c37fbecad04d01e233923-710-710/img36o.jpg" border="0" alt="img36o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>7. Knobs and Hardware</strong></p>
<p>Petty's pro tip: "Swapping out knobs and other hardware allows you to 'upgrade' your cabinetry or furniture without replacing anything."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/agate-cabinet-handle-green-d2087/">Agate Cabinet Handle Set of Two, $49.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/category/hardware/shopsale-hardware.jsp#/">Shop more unique cabinet hardware here.</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/gallery-frames-black-d477/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/559c38166bb3f7196f5ff6d7-710-710/img15o.jpg" border="0" alt="img15o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>8. Frames</strong></p>
<p>You can (and should) frame anything.&nbsp;"A frame instantly elevates an item. Even the silliest of things, like your kids' macaroni art projects, will look smashing in a frame" explains Petty. "Just make sure you have a good story to tell when someone asks you about it."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/gallery-frames-black-d477/">Gallery Frames in Black, $12 to $99.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Photo-Frames/b/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;node=1063286&amp;tag=biip_070815_affordable-home-upgrades-20&amp;linkId=75NN4EGS5FYKYSHW">Shop more decorative frames here.</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/semi-circle-terrariums-c696/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/559c3832ecad049e2423391f-710-710/img13o-1.jpg" border="0" alt="img13o 1" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>9. Succulents and Fresh Flowers</strong></p>
<p>"Incorporating a fresh bouquet of flowers every week will help liven up your space, and it can be done inexpensively," Petty notes. "Stick to hardier varieties that will last longer." Terrariums with succulents arranged in them are another option, so long as you don't have a black thumb.</p>
<p>A simple glass vessel, like the ones pictured here, will display your blooms proudly.<br> <br> <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/semi-circle-terrariums-c696/">Open-Face Terrariums, $14 to $29.</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.thebouqs.com/en/">Shop fresh blooms here.</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/rustic-storage-coffee-table-g569/?cm_src=AutoRel2"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/559c4a13eab8ea06411d42cc-710-710/img81o.jpg" border="0" alt="img81o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>10. Storage</strong></p>
<p>"Incorporate storage items into your decor as much as possible — the more storage you have, the tidier and more 'thought about' your house will feel," suggests Petty.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/rustic-storage-coffee-table-g569/?cm_src=AutoRel2">Industrial Storage Coffee Table, $549 to $699</a>;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/crated-office-collection-d2348/">Crated Office Collection, $29 to $126.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;field-keywords=storage%20solutions&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;rh=n%3A1055398%2Ck%3Astorage%20solutions&amp;sprefix=storage%20solutions%2Cundefined%2C132&amp;tag=biip_070815_affordable-home-upgrades-20&amp;url=search-alias%3Dgarden&amp;linkId=4GDSYYL2XTSCD5ZA">Shop more storage solutions here.</a></p>
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<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/559c386b69bedd1722da23d6-710-710/img43o.jpg" border="0" alt="img43o" width="400" height="400"><strong>11. Window Treatments</strong></p>
<p>"Buying new panels will change the way your space looks — instantly," offers Petty. "The small adjustment will make a surprisingly big impact." They'll look a lot better and offer more privacy than bare windows.&nbsp;<br> <br> <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/cotton-canvas-bracket-geo-curtain-moonstone-t1729/">Cotton Canvas Bracket Geo Curtain in Moonshine, $39 to $59.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/shop/rugs-windows/window-panels-curtains-shades/?cm_type=gnav">Shop more window treatments here.</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/hobnail-acrylic-glassware-e1026/"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/559c3886eab8ea6a5d5ff6dc-710-710/img85o.jpg" border="0" alt="img85o" width="400" height="400"></a><strong>12. Matching Glassware</strong></p>
<p>"By now, I am sure your pint glass collection from bars across America is getting pretty good — I get it," says Ford. "But, it's probably time you upgraded your space with matching glassware and mugs." Matching doesn't have to mean expensive: Go to Ikea, CB2, or something other home store for sophisticated-looking pieces that won't give you chest pains if (okay, when) when they break.</p>
<p>"If you can, swing for matching dishes as well," suggests Ford. "And, again, keep it simple and avoid designs and prints for a foolproof selection."&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/hobnail-acrylic-glassware-e1026/">Hobnail Acrylic Glassware (Set of 4), $16.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.williams-sonoma.com/shop/tabletop-glassware-bar/?cm_type=gnav">Shop more tabletop essentials here.</a></p>
<hr>
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/559c38a8eab8ea26625ff6d7-710-710/img17o.jpg" border="0" alt="img17o" width="400" height="400"><strong>13.&nbsp;Bathroom Toiletries&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>"Buy a <a href="http://www.murchison-hume.com/collections/hand-care/products/superlative-hand-soap">nice bottle of hand soap</a> for each sink," Ford urges. "Sure, its $20 instead of $4, but enjoy it. And, when it runs out you can fill it with the container cheap stuff. No one will know at that point anyway." The designer has a good point — "your soap dispensers are always out and showing, so they may as well be nice-looking."&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you can't justify the fancy-pants soap, maybe you <em>can</em> justify buying a nice-smelling diffuser or candle. Every bathroom can use one of those, too.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/products/clean-simple-diffuser-d3077/">Clean + Simple Diffuser, $29.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/6415797/type/dlg/http://www.westelm.com/shop/bath/?cm_type=gnav">Shop more bathroom accessories here.</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>READ THIS:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/yard-games-croquet-2015-7" >The best outdoor games to play in your backyard or at the beach next weekend</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/cuisinart-griddler-2015-6" >Cuisinart has an awesome way to cook great burgers indoors [49% off]</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/affordable-home-upgrades-2015-7#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/9-home-improvements-you-should-always-negotiate-2015-69 home improvements you should always negotiatehttp://www.businessinsider.com/9-home-improvements-you-should-always-negotiate-2015-6
Mon, 29 Jun 2015 10:16:17 -0400Tim Lemke
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/558da73069bedd9e5adaa49b-600-/painting-house-renovating-1.jpg" border="0" alt="painting house renovating" width="600"></p><p>Contractors aren't easy to haggle with. You can't negotiate the price of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wisebread.com/8-diy-backyard-home-improvements-that-save-you-big">home improvements</a>&nbsp;in the same way you can with car salesmen. But that doesn't mean you're locked in to whatever the contractor first says.</p>
<p>When negotiating the cost of home improvements, it helps to start off with a solid idea of what you want to pay. Be honest about your budget, and your contractor will do his or her best to complete the project accordingly.</p>
<p>If they can't meet your price exactly, then you can examine where some cost savings lie. Perhaps you don't need the high-end granite countertops, after all. Maybe you can do the painting later on your own. If you show flexibility on your end, the contractor may show some flexibility on theirs.</p>
<p>Here's a look at some of the home improvement jobs that might offer opportunity for price negotiations.</p>
<h3>1. Anything big</h3>
<p>The larger the job, the more ability you have to negotiate. Contractors want big jobs and know they can lead to additional work down the road, so they're not going to walk away from a project over a few dollars here and there.</p>
<p>When my family hired someone to build an addition to our house, we saved several thousand dollars by haggling over the final cost in advance. We chatted about the cost of every aspect of the project, and were able to find savings in a variety of areas, from the windows to the carpeting and the type of deck stain. The key is to discuss the total cost beforehand and make sure everything is outlined in a contract so there are no surprises.</p>
<h3>2. Jobs that your neighbors are considering</h3>
<p>If you're getting a new roof installed and you know that your next-door neighbor needs a new roof as well, use that as leverage. If you can promise to give your contractor's name to your neighbor, the contractor might be willing to knock off a few dollars from your price. Some contractors even promise discounts if you give them future business through referrals.</p>
<p><img src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/558da795eab8ea041bdaa49f-1200-600/remodel-renovation-5.jpg" border="0" alt="remodel renovation"></p>
<h3>3. Any job where you are getting multiple bids</h3>
<p>If a contractor knows you're seeking bids from other contractors, he will be more inclined to be flexible on cost. This usually works for larger jobs — you're not going to get 10 bids for a clogged drain, for instance — but also be prepared to humbly come back to the contractor if the other bids aren't any lower.</p>
<h3>4. Jobs that you can complete yourself</h3>
<p>Let's say a contractor is building you a new deck. Are you willing to paint or stain the deck yourself after it's constructed? If a plumber had to cut a hole in the ceiling to fix a pipe, can you replace the drywall later on your own? Figuring out what you can do yourself can help reduce the price of any job.</p>
<h3>5. Winter jobs</h3>
<p>Many contractors will find themselves busy as bees during the spring and summer months, but twiddling their thumbs in the cold months of winter. That's because many homeowners never consider improvement projects until the weather is nice. Contractors may be more flexible on price if they aren't as busy, and you may find that they can do the work sooner for you as well.</p>
<p><img src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/558da7d0ecad040b68daa49d-1000-500/home-remodeling-4.jpg" border="0" alt="home remodeling"></p>
<h3>6. Jobs where you are not picky</h3>
<p>The more particular you are, the less negotiating flexibility you have. If you can relax on certain aspects of a project, you may save money. Perhaps you're not too concerned about getting top-of-the-line carpeting in a room that doesn't get much foot traffic. Perhaps you don't need as many electrical outlets in a family room as you first thought. Negotiating is a two-way street, so know where your flexibility lies.</p>
<h3>7. Bundled jobs</h3>
<p>Last year, my family had contractors handle a number of repairs. They were unrelated jobs, but we were able to save some money by convincing the contractor to think of them as part of a single project. A contractor can save money on labor costs by working on several projects at once, and may also be able to save on bulk purchases of materials. (See also:<a href="http://www.wisebread.com/save-time-money-and-hassle-by-bundling-your-home-repairs?ref=seealso">Save Time, Money, and Hassle by Bundling Your Home Repairs</a>)</p>
<h3>8. Jobs that don't require materials</h3>
<p>Sometimes, you can get a contractor to perform extra small jobs that require nothing more than a little extra sweat on their part. For instance, if they are at your home for a major renovation, then maybe they will be willing to power wash the exterior of your house (it helps if you provide the power washer), clean out your gutters, or trim some tree branches.</p>
<p>During a recent big project at my house, a contractor took the time to label the switches on my circuit breaker box at no extra charge. These might be jobs that take very little time, require no extra expense on their part, and can be squeezed in while workers are on a job site anyway.</p>
<h3>9. The kind you can pay for in full early</h3>
<p>Contractors, like all people, love getting paid for their work. In most cases, they will not ask for full payment until a job is complete. But they may be willing to offer a discount if they can get the majority of funds early on. This requires some trust on your part, and you should withhold at least some payment until a job is complete. But if you show that you're able to pay promptly, contractors may show their appreciation with some price flexibility.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/the-biggest-renovation-mistake-2014-12" >Here's The Most Common Renovation Mistake, According To An HGTV Host</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/9-home-improvements-you-should-always-negotiate-2015-6#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/new-air-force-one-tour-boeing-private-jet-2015-5">Take a tour of the $367 million jet that will soon be called Air Force One</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/roomba-vacuum-2015-6Deal of the day: Save $200 on this top-of-the-line vacuumhttp://www.businessinsider.com/roomba-vacuum-2015-6
Tue, 16 Jun 2015 11:45:00 -0400Banu Ibrahim
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/55803cee6da811f459ef5c5c-400-300/71-ygsqoemlsl1000-2.jpg" border="0" alt="71 YgSqOEmL._SL1000_" width="400" height="300"></p><p>A high-quality vacuum will set your wallet back a few hundred dollars, easy. The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005F1PT32/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B005F1PT32&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=biip_061215_dotd-roomba-vacuum-20&amp;linkId=Y6MGDM5DU3HOCEHR">Roomba 780</a>, which is a choice option for those who have pets and allergies, normally runs for $600, to give you an idea.</p>
<p>Today only, though, you can scoop it up for $400. It’s still a hefty price tag, but the $200 discount might be the impetus you need to swing for a much-needed upgrade. &nbsp;</p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005F1PT32/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B005F1PT32&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=biip_061215_dotd-roomba-vacuum-20&amp;linkId=Y6MGDM5DU3HOCEHR">Roomba 780</a> sucks up all the bad stuff — pet hair, dirt, dust, and more — with a dual-filter trap, and in turn, leaves behind clean, fresh air. Having a tough week at work? You can schedule the vacuum to perform up to seven cleaning sessions per week, even when you are not home, according to its product description. Suffice it to say, Roomba 780's advanced navigation, superior cleaning, and slashed price (remember the deal runs today only) is a splurge you and your home deserve. &nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005F1PT32/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B005F1PT32&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=biip_061215_dotd-roomba-vacuum-20&amp;linkId=Y6MGDM5DU3HOCEHR"><strong>iRobot</strong> <strong>Roomba Vacuum Cleaning Robot for Pets and Allergies</strong>, $399.99 (originally $599.99), available at Amazon.</a><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">&nbsp;<span style="color: #ff0000;">[33% off]</span></span></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>READ THIS:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/affordable-drones-2015-6" >14 drones for every budget</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/cool-phone-dock-2015-6" >This phone dock will create good Feng Shui in your bedroom</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/roomba-vacuum-2015-6#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/r-home-improvement-chain-lowes-profit-rises-8-percent-2015-5Lowe's profit rises 8% as Americans spend more on renovationshttp://www.businessinsider.com/r-home-improvement-chain-lowes-profit-rises-8-percent-2015-5
Wed, 20 May 2015 06:24:34 -0400
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/555c5eca5afbd300618b4573-450-300/home-improvement-chain-lowes-profit-rises-8-percent.jpg" border="0" alt="Lowe's workers collect shopping carts in the parking lot at the Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse in Burbank, California August 15, 2011. REUTERS/Fred Prouser"></p><p>(Reuters) - Lowe's Cos Inc, the No.2 U.S. home improvement chain by sales, reported a 7.9 percent rise in quarterly profit as an improving job market encouraged Americans to spend on renovations.</p>
<p>The company's net income rose to $673 million, or 70 cents per share, in the first quarter ended May 1 from $624 million, or 61 cents per share, a year earlier.</p>
<p>Net sales rose 5.4 percent to $14.13 billion.</p>
<p>Total same-store sales rose 5.2 percent. Analysts on average had estimated a 6.1 percent rise, according to Consensus Metrix.</p>
<p>(Reporting by Nandita Bose in Chicago and Nayan Das in Bengaluru; Editing by Kirti Pandey)</p><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/r-home-improvement-chain-lowes-profit-rises-8-percent-2015-5#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/roar-filmed-with-100-untamed-lions-movie-injured-2015-4">70 people were injured while filming this movie with 100 untamed lions</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/contractors-dirty-little-secret-home-construction-2015-4Here's the dirty little secret contractors don't want you to knowhttp://www.businessinsider.com/contractors-dirty-little-secret-home-construction-2015-4
Fri, 15 May 2015 08:03:00 -0400Graham Flanagan
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<p>Scott McGillivray specializes in helping homeowners transform their properties into "income properties" that can be rented out to create an additional source of income. His HGTV show <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/shows/income-property" target="_blank">"Income Property"</a> is now in its tenth season.</p>
<p>McGillivray has a massive amount of experience working with contractors, and he strives to educate his audience about how they can maintain a level playing field with the people they're paying to renovate their properties.<br><br><em>Produced by <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/author/graham-flanagan" target="_blank">Graham Flanagan</a></em><br><br><strong>Follow BI Video: </strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/BusinessInsider.Video?ref=br_tf" target="_blank">on Facebook</a></p><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/contractors-dirty-little-secret-home-construction-2015-4#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/google-versus-amazon-home-services-2015-4Google wants to book your next plumber — just like Amazonhttp://www.businessinsider.com/google-versus-amazon-home-services-2015-4
Tue, 07 Apr 2015 13:38:00 -0400Jillian D'Onfro
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/5501170f69bedd9a578b4567-1200-924/plumber-7.jpg" border="0" alt="plumber"></p><p>Google might want to help you book your next plumber, electrician, or house-cleaner.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The company plans to announce a new product to help its users connect with home services providers, <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/carolineodonovan/google-eyes-home-services-market#.rvXoz5ZBA">sources tell BuzzFeed's Caroline O'Donovan</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meaning, if you Google "plumber," you could be directly connected with a local professional, not just through ads that that service provider bought as is the case today.</p>
<p>Amazon just launched <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/amazon-introduces-amazon-home-services-2015-3">a very similar service in March</a>&nbsp;which will provide a marketplace of vetted professionals, complete with reviews and upfront pricing.&nbsp;Although BuzzFeed's source didn't say whether Google's new product would have those features, it would make sense. The company just launched <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/google-auto-insurance-comparison-tool-2015-3">a car insurance comparison tool</a> that quickly and easily gives users a bunch of quotes when they search for insurance and then answer a few questions. It's easy to imagine Google's new product doing the same thing.</p>
<p>Google's move into this space would mark the latest step in the competition between the two giants. Amazon Prime Now and Google Express both want to be your one-stop shop for one-hour deliveries. Google wants to stop people from starting their product searches on Amazon <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/google-pla-update-2014-10">through its product listing ads</a>. They're duking it out to dominate cloud computing. Home services is another frontier for them to battle it out for customer attention.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Google and Amazon aren't the only ones taking a swing at professionals-on-demand space, either. Two Seattle companies, <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/porch-home-improvement-network-fundraise-2015-1">Porch</a> and <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/matt-williams-procom-buildcom-2014-7">Pro.com</a>, both want to make it easier for users to connect with home improvement professionals, too.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Google declined to comment on this report.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/cost-benefit-of-google-perks-2015-4" >Here are all of Google's employee perks, and how much they cost the company</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/google-versus-amazon-home-services-2015-4#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/update-iphone-ios-82-storage-space-2015-3">Apple sneaked in an annoying new feature in its latest iPhone iOS update — but there's also an upside</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/diy-home-security-system-2014-7This DIY Home Security System Smashed Its Goals On Kickstarterhttp://www.businessinsider.com/diy-home-security-system-2014-7
Thu, 24 Jul 2014 09:55:35 -0400Rebecca Borison
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/53d109076da8116562ec7098-1066-799/novi-security.png" border="0" alt="Novi Security" /></p><p>A new do-it-yourself home security system has just raised $175,681 on <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/274168493/novi-security" target="_blank">Kickstarter,</a> obliterating its goal of $80,000.</p>
<p>The system comes from a company called <a href="http://www.novisecurity.com/#kickstarter">Novi Security</a>&nbsp;and lets you install small detectors in your house that notify you when there is any motion or smoke.</p>
<p>It&nbsp;<span>works similarly to&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/r-googles-nest-launches-network-technology-for-connected-home-2014-15">Nest</a><span>&nbsp;in that you can control the sensor remotely.&nbsp;</span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">You just attach as many sensors as you want to the ceiling in different rooms in your house. Then, when they detect motion or smoke, they will automatically start taking pictures and send them to your phone through a base station that you plug in to any wall of your house.</span></p>
<p>You can also remotely request the sensors take a picture of a room whenever and wherever you want through Novi's app.</p>
<p>Now that Novi's Kickstarter campaign is over, they're <a href="http://www.novisecurity.com/pre-order" target="_blank">accepting pre-orders</a> on their site. You can get the starter kit, which includes one sensor, the base station, and the app for $199. And you can get additional sensors for $89.</p>
<p>According to the company, the three things that set Novi apart from its competitors in the space are its discreet design and ability to be placed anywhere, its smoke detection capabilities, and its price.</p>
<h3>This is what the sensor actually looks like.</h3>
<p><img src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/53d109516da8119466ec708f-1059-793/novi-security-3.png" border="0" alt="Novi Security" /></p>
<h3>You can put them wherever you like in your house.</h3>
<p><img src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/53d109a7eab8ea93425f8407-1055-791/novi-security-4.png" border="0" alt="Novi Security" /></p>
<h3>And these are the guys behind Novi, Ethan Grabau (left) and Bryan Whiting.</h3>
<p><img src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/53d10a6469beddaa4b5f8408-800-600/novi.jpg" border="0" alt="novi security" /></p>
<h3>You can watch the preview video here:</h3>
<p><iframe width="800" height="600" frameborder="0" src="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/274168493/novi-security/widget/video.html"> </iframe></p><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/diy-home-security-system-2014-7#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/matt-williams-procom-buildcom-2014-7The Ex-Amazon Dream Team At Pro.com Just Made Your Next Home Improvement Project Even Easierhttp://www.businessinsider.com/matt-williams-procom-buildcom-2014-7
Mon, 14 Jul 2014 09:19:00 -0400Jillian D'Onfro
<p dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5em;"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/53c3ce79ecad042a1a7346b6-793-595/matt-williams-procom-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Matt Williams Pro.com" />The home projects company <a href="https://pro.com/" target="_blank">Pro.com</a> just got more useful thanks to a new partnership with Build.com.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5em;">Pro gives people instant price estimates for any home improvement project (tailored to their zip code) and helps them schedule verified professionals to complete that project. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5em;">Now, its service&nbsp;<a href="http://www.build.com/before-and-after-with-budget-estimates/a374" target="_blank">will integrate with Build</a> to let customers easily pick out the materials and products they want to use from its database of 700,000 options. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5em;">The idea: To give people a complete understanding of how much any given home project will cost, and then give them all the tools they need to order the right materials and schedule a professional to get it done.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5em;"><span>Led by Matt Williams, the former Digg CEO, Andreessen Horowitz entrepreneur in residence, and long-time Amazon employee </span><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/pro-home-projects-matt-williams-ex-amazon-2014-5#ixzz37Rj9tzVa" target="_blank">Pro launched in May</a> after raising a&nbsp;<span>$3.5 million round of funding from&nbsp;</span><span>Madrona Ventures, Andreessen Horowitz, Bezos Expeditions (Jeff Bezos' personal&nbsp;<span style="color: #000000;"><span class="kLink">venture&nbsp;</span><span class="kLink">capital&nbsp;</span><span class="kLink">firm</span></span>), and others. </span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">What seems like a simple process on the surface &mdash; users simply visit the site, enter any project they need done, fill in their zip code, and get a price estimate &nbsp;&mdash; is the "tip of the iceberg" of an incredibly complex system. Pro's team needed to refine its natural language search and figure out an algorithm (based on tons and tons of research) for adjusting different professional costs across the country.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><span>Williams told Business Insider that&nbsp;</span><span>over half of Pro's 30-person team has worked at Amazon at some point, and part of what makes the team so strong is its members' robust engineering background.</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr">"We're as much a search engine as a home projects system," Williams said.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Although Pro has vetted professionals all across the country &mdash; and started getting thousands of cost estimate requests soon after launching &mdash; the full scheduling product is only available in Seattle for now.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Eventually, Williams sees Pro's system offering services for more than just home improvement projects. The idea of delighting customers has been ingrained in Williams thanks to his 12 years working at Amazon in various roles (he even shadowed CEO Jeff Bezos for a while). Williams joined the company after his startup LiveBid was acquired in 1999.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">When asked whether he's nervous about the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/r-exclusive-amazoncom-plans-local-services-marketplace-this-year---sources-2014-10" target="_blank">rumors that Amazon itself could be launching a local services platform</a>, Williams played it cool. There's enough room for both of us, he says.&nbsp;</p>
<p>As part of this new partnership, Pro.com users will receive a 5% discount from Build.com on their first order.</p><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/matt-williams-procom-buildcom-2014-7#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/good-signs-for-home-refinance-and-repair-2014-5Home Improvements And Mortgage Refinancings Are On The Rise In America (HD, LOW)http://www.businessinsider.com/good-signs-for-home-refinance-and-repair-2014-5
Wed, 21 May 2014 09:56:30 -0400Myles Udland
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/52a8d313eab8ea6f6fa6b881-565-423/tool-time-2.png" border="0" alt="tool time" width="565" height="423" /></p><p>It's been a decent morning for homeowners.</p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.mortgagebankers.org/NewsandMedia/PressCenter/88279.htm">Mortgage Banker's Association reported</a> that mortgage applications on a seasonally adjusted basis increased 0.9% from the prior week. This increase was bolstered by mortgage refinances, which grew 4%.</p>
<p>The average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage also fell 6 basis points to 4.33%, its lowest levels since October. Homeowners looking to lower their mortgage payments should benefit.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Refinance activity still remains more than more than 70% from its levels last year. Check out this historical chart from Calculated Risk.</p>
<p><img src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/537caaf96bb3f7bb1857d112-1110-711/mbarefimay212014.jpg" border="0" alt="MBARefiMay212014" /></p>
<p>This data also comes on the heels of earnings reports from home improvement retailers Home Depot (HD) and Lowe's (LOW). Within the last day, both companies reported earnings, and while their first quarter results came in a bit mixed, their outlooks for the rest of the year were both upbeat.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Yesterday morning,&nbsp;<a href="http://ir.homedepot.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=63646&amp;p=irol-newsArticle&amp;ID=1932546&amp;highlight=">Home Depot reaffirmed its fiscal 2014 sales outlook</a> and raised its profit view, though the company's earnings per share are expected to be bolstered by $3.75 billion in share repurchases expected during the rest of the year.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Lowe's this morning <a href="http://media.lowes.com/pr/2014/05/21/lowes-reports-first-quarter-sales-and-earnings-results-5/">reported first quarter sales that disappointed</a>, but the company's quarterly earnings and fiscal year outlooks were in-line with expectations. Lowe's CEO&nbsp;<span>Robert Niblock,&nbsp;<span>&ldquo;[p]erformance has improved in May which, together with our strengthening execution, gives us the confidence to reaffirm our sales and operating profit outlook for the year."</span></span></p>
<p>Lowe's also said it expects operating profit margin to improve 65 basis points.</p>
<p>Lowe's shares opened fractionally lower, while Home Depot stock opened a bit higher.</p><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/good-signs-for-home-refinance-and-repair-2014-5#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/20-handyman-skills-that-everyone-should-have-2014-320 Handyman Skills That Everyone Should Havehttp://www.businessinsider.com/20-handyman-skills-that-everyone-should-have-2014-3
Tue, 18 Mar 2014 11:38:00 -0400Staff
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/5328635eecad046e5eed92ff-480-/fixing-a-sink.jpg" border="0" alt="fixing a sink" width="480" /></p><p>When it comes to the heavy handyman stuff&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> serious electrical work, deep plumbing, anything to do with a septic tank&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> we understand why you might want to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.askmen.com/daily/austin_100/128d_fashion_style.html" data-ls-seen="1">leave it to the pros</a>. <br /><br />But a man should also know his way around a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.askmen.com/money/how_to_300/319b_how_to.html" data-ls-seen="1">toolbox</a>. Even if you live in an apartment or condo, it&rsquo;s important to be able to take care of the basics yourself.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Plus, if you&rsquo;ve been calling a plumber every time your sink gets clogged, then you&rsquo;re&nbsp;<a href="http://www.askmen.com/money/investing_300/303_ways-men-waste-money.html" data-ls-seen="1">throwing away your money</a>. <br /><br />But most importantly, knowing how to take care of things yourself will give you self-assurance and a greater sense of ownership over your home&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> which in turn will make you likelier to pick up more handyman skills as your confidence grows.</p>
<p>Men used to learn a lot of basic carpentry, plumbing, electricity and other maintenance skills from their fathers as a matter of course, but for those of you who didn&rsquo;t get these lessons, here are 20 skills every man should have to be the master of his own castle.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>1. Find a stud</h3>
<p>Studfinders&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> the tool that spawned a thousand easy jokes&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> aren&rsquo;t expensive, but why depend on a gadget when you can find the stud yourself? Studs are the vertical beams that support walls, and they provide support when mounting decorations, TV screens or to anchor heavy furniture. There should be a stud on either side of each window, as well as beside electrical boxes for switches and outlets. Another giveaway is to look where any nails have been hammered into the molding, as they&rsquo;re usually driven into the stud. Studs tend to be set every 16 or 24 inches around the room, so once you&rsquo;ve found one you can measure the rest. To check, you can sound out where the studs are: when you tap the wall, it will mostly have a slightly hollow sound <span class="st">&mdash;</span> but it will sound noticeably denser where there&rsquo;s a stud.</p>
<h3>2. Anchor a bookcase to a wall</h3>
<p>Now that you can find a stud, it&rsquo;s time to use it. Heavy standalone objects like bookshelves should be attached to the wall to ensure that a seismic event, household accident or super-athletic bout of sex doesn&rsquo;t bring it down.&nbsp;</p>
<p>First, find the studs in the wall where you want to anchor your bookshelf. Depending on what kind of bookcase you&rsquo;re anchoring and how much damage you&rsquo;re willing to see it take, there are a few ways to approach this. If the bookshelf is backless, you&rsquo;re golden: simply measure and space two L-brackets at least 24 inches apart, making sure one of them is on the stud. Use a pencil to mark the drill holes on both the wall and the shelf; hammer or drill a pilot hole in the marked spots; then screw the L-bracket to the side or underside of the shelf and to the wall.</p>
<p>For a bookcase with a back, first measure the case, minus its frame (so, the width of the case&rsquo;s shelves), then cut a 1x6 piece of lumber to match. Drill two or three evenly-spaced pilot holes at the height of the case&rsquo;s top shelf, making sure that at least one of these goes into a stud. Mark their locations on the piece of lumber you cut, then place the lumber and drill a second set of pilot holes so that the holes in the lumber line up with those in the walls. Then screw the board to the wall with screws long enough to pass through the board and drywall and into the wall stud. Finally, attach two L-brackets to the underside of the book case&rsquo;s top shelf, then return the bookshelf to its place and screw the brackets to the mounted piece of lumber.</p>
<h3>3. Spackle a hole or scuff</h3>
<p>Nothing mars your man-cave more than the unsightly holes and bumps that result from relocating or removing your wall&nbsp;<a href="http://www.askmen.com/money/how_to_250/282_how_to.html">art</a>. To keep your pad looking good, get in the habit of keeping spackle, a putty knife and paint around. First, clean up any loose bits or anything that sticks out from the hole you want to fix. Spread a bit of spackle over the hole using the putty knife, pressing hard to lay a thin, smooth layer&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> spackle shrinks, so it&rsquo;s OK if there&rsquo;s a little extra over the hole. Let it dry a few hours, and if needed, apply a second layer. Smooth the spackle with a fine-grade sandpaper until it&rsquo;s flush with the rest of the wall, then paint over the damaged area.</p>
<h3>4. Fix a loose tile</h3>
<p>Loose or wobbly tiles are the precursors of broken tiles, making this a minor problem worth getting fixed before it gets major. First, run a preheated iron over the loose tile and surrounding area to loosen its adhesive, then gently lift the tile out. Clean the area underneath with alcohol, then scrape it clean with the putty knife to get all of the old adhesive off. Apply a new coating of tile adhesive to both the gap and to the back of the tile and carefully replace the tile. Use a rolling pin to press the tile into place and get rid of any air bubbles, then wipe clean any excess adhesive on or around the tile. If it&rsquo;s a floor tile, weigh the tile down with a heavy object, like a stack of books, until the bond sets.</p>
<h3>5. Caulk a shower, sink or tub</h3>
<p>This one&rsquo;s almost fun. If you notice that there&rsquo;s a bit of leakage around your sink, shower or bathtub, it might be time to replace the caulking&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> that line of putty or gel at the seam where the basin meets the wall or floor. Caulking loses effectiveness over time, so you should reseal it once a year.&nbsp;</p>
<p>First, use a plastic putty knife to scrape off the old caulking, then clean the surface with rubbing alcohol. Apply a stripe of masking tape above and below where you&rsquo;re applying your caulk&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> this will give you a clean, even-looking line. Take your tube of caulk&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> there are numerous kinds, but choosing one with silicone will give you better mildew protection&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> and load it into the caulking gun, following the directions on the package to cut open the application tip and making sure that you pierce through any secondary layer of packaging inside.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Smoothly move the caulking gun along the seam you want to patch while depressing the caulking gun&rsquo;s trigger evenly. Once it&rsquo;s applied, use your finger to smooth and flatten the line, removing any excess caulk, then peel off masking tape. Let the caulking dry for at least a day or two before exposing it to water or moisture.</p>
<h3>6. Fix a leaky faucet</h3>
<div>
<p>The details depend on the model, but the basics are the same: In the end, the solution is almost always to replace a worn-down or faulty washer, O-ring or stem. The following steps will guide you through identifying the problem, but make sure you match the size precisely when you replace any damaged parts.&nbsp;</p>
<p>First, turn off your water, both from the handles over the sink and the mainline, usually a small valve attached to the pipes under your sink. Next, very gently use your flat-head screwdriver to remove the knob handle(s); use a little penetrating oil for lubrication if it feels too tight to slip off easily. Loosen the packing nut with a wrench. This should let you spot the stem, which you can also remove, then check for damage. Do the same with the O-ring and washer, as one of these three elements is likely the culprit. Replace any damaged parts, then reassemble the faucet in the same order&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> washer and O-ring, stem, packing nut, screw, handle&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> turn the water back on, and test the water.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If it&rsquo;s still leaky, then you&rsquo;ve done what you can. The problem runs deeper and it&rsquo;s time to call a plumber.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>7. Unclog a drain</h3>
<p>Depending on the extent of the clog, you&rsquo;ve got a few options here. First, try to clear the drain with a mixture of vinegar, hot water and baking soda&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> a few good glugs should clear any soft blockages like grease or product. If that doesn&rsquo;t do the trick, your next stop is the plunger&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> not the one you use for your toilet, dude; you deserve better than that. Fill the sink half-full of water, then plunge the sink drain like you would a toilet, pumping the rubber part to create suction.&nbsp;<br /><br />Still clogged? Check the trap. Place a bucket under your pipes, then unscrew the trap&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> the curved piece of pipe that connects your sink to the vertical pipe&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> either by hand or using a pipe wrench. Empty the water and clear any clogs, then return the trap to its place, reattach to the other pipes, and test by running some water to see whether the drain is cleared. And if&nbsp;that&nbsp;doesn&rsquo;t work&hellip;</p>
<h3>8. Snake a drain</h3>
<p>No, it&rsquo;s not glamorous, but you&rsquo;ve got to get that gunk out of there. To do this, you&rsquo;ll need a drain auger, a coiled spiral tool that pushes or drills through a deep clog; if you don&rsquo;t have your own, most building centers rent both manual and electric models.&nbsp;</p>
<p>First, try the drain: Push the end of the snake into the opening and turn its drum handle clockwise, sending the auger cable down the drain until you feel resistance. Keep rotating the snake until the resistance passes, then pull it out&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> whatever&rsquo;s plugging up the sink will likely come out with it. Run water to ensure that the clog has passed.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If it&rsquo;s still obstructed, then the problem likely runs deeper. Under your sink, remove the horizontal pipe that connects the trap to the stub pipe in the wall, either by hand or using a pipe wrench. Turn the snake handle clockwise, while pushing the auger further into the pipe, trying to catch and pull anything that provides resistance, as above. Once you&rsquo;ve cleared the problem, retract the cable from the stub pipe and re-attach the trap and horizontal pipe.</p>
<h3>9. Seal a pavement crack</h3>
<p>If you don&rsquo;t live in an apartment, your empire (and its maintenance) could well extend out into the driveway. Sadly, cracks in concrete and asphalt are a reality of life&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> ones that, left unaddressed, will develop into a full-blown potholes. Luckily, they&rsquo;re easy to fix. Before you start, remove any plants or debris from the crack, first with a screwdriver or knife tip, then by giving it a once-over with the garden hose to blast out anything deeper. Let the crack dry.&nbsp;<br /><br />When it&rsquo;s dry, apply crack filler until it&rsquo;s flush with the rest of the surface you&rsquo;re repairing, then wait at least 24 hours until it&rsquo;s fully dry. If the crack&rsquo;s still visible, go for a second coat. Wait a good one to two days before walking or driving on the crack once you&rsquo;ve repaired it, to ensure that it&rsquo;s fully set.</p>
<h3>10. Change a shower head</h3>
<p>To remove the old shower head, turn a wrench counter-clockwise to loosen its notch, then screw off the old head with your hands. Use a rag soaked with vinegar or a little bit of alcohol to scrub off any scum or residue around the old shower head stem. Wrap the end of the stem pipe with a few layers of Teflon tape, then use your fingers to smooth the tape. Install the replacement head, tightening it onto the pipe clockwise by hand. Turn the shower on to check for leaks&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> if it&rsquo;s still spouting, tighten the new shower head with a wrench, being careful to proceed gradually to prevent over-tightening.</p>
<h3>11. Clean the gutters</h3>
<p>Regardless of the climate you live in, cleaning out the gutters is part and parcel of living in a house, rather than an&nbsp;<a href="http://www.askmen.com/fine_living/galleries/awesome-apartments.html">apartment or condo</a>&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> and not doing it will give you a bigger headache in the long run. If your gutters are higher than one story, then it might be time to hire a pro. But if they&rsquo;re on the first floor, you should be able to handle this yourself.&nbsp;<br /><br />First, get up on a ladder, making sure it&rsquo;s stable. You can use a stand-off, or ladder stabilizer, to avoid damaging the gutters or house siding. First, use a trowel to dig out dead leaves and other debris that&rsquo;s collected in the gutters, collecting it in a bucket or garbage bag. Next, flush the pipes clean with a hose&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> the higher the pressure, the better. Finally, use the hose to flush out the downspouts, making sure to check that the water flows through without blockage.</p>
<h3>12. Replace a toilet seat</h3>
<p>This one&rsquo;s a small chore that can make a world of difference. First, open the bolt caps, the plastic snap-shut lid at the back of the toilet seat. Reach around and under the toilet seat to the nut that secures the seat to the bowl, and grip this with an adjustable wrench. Holding the nut, unscrew the two seat bolts and lift off the old toilet seat. Place the new seat, aligning its anchor bolts with the two holes in the toilet base. Push the bolts through the holes, then screw on the nuts from the underside by hand. Make sure that the seat is centered, then finish tightening the two nuts with a wrench.</p>
<h3>13. Tighten a loose door hinge</h3>
<p>If you notice an interior door sticking or scraping, it&rsquo;s probably time to tighten up its hinges. If you can jiggle the door up and down when you grab it by the lock side, then this is your culprit&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> but it&rsquo;s almost criminally easy to fix. First, find and remove any loose screws in the hinges. For each removed screw, take a wooden matchstick, dip it in carpenter&rsquo;s glue, and drive it into the screw hole, then break or cut off any part of the matchstick that sticks out. Drive each screw back into the patched hole, and the matchstick-glue combo should hold it secure.</p>
<h3>14. Use anchor screws to hang heavy objects</h3>
<p>Sometimes there just isn&rsquo;t a stud where you need it, but there&rsquo;s no need to let that mess with your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.askmen.com/money/body_and_mind_60/76_better_living.html">feng shui</a>. It just means that you&rsquo;ll have to anchor your screws into the wallboard. Be warned, though: While anchored screws do give you a bit more leverage while you&rsquo;re hanging things like artwork, a mirror or a small shelf, no amount of anchoring is going to let you hang heavy objects from plaster or drywall without support from a stud.</p>
<p>First, buy your anchors&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> you&rsquo;ll need to use a metal anchor for plaster walls, while plastic anchors work better in drywall. The anchor also needs to match the size of the screws you&rsquo;re using, and these should be at least 1.5 inches long to secure your hanging. Drill or hammer your pilot holes where you want to hang something <span class="st">&mdash;</span> the heavier the object, the more anchors you&rsquo;ll need to hold it up. Gently hammer in the anchor until it&rsquo;s flush with the wall, then screw in the screw, leaving about a quarter-inch to hang your mounted object on.</p>
<h3>15. Change a doorknob</h3>
<p>Unscrew the two screws in the handle&rsquo;s face plate (the piece that fixes the door to the door jamb), knob plate (the piece that fixes the knob to the door) and strike plate (the piece in the door jamb with a slot for the latch). Pull the handles off both sides of the door, slide out the face plate and pawl and remove the strike plate. If the new knob you&rsquo;re installing is a different size than the one you&rsquo;re replacing, use a hammer and chisel to adjust the openings in the door and door jamb.&nbsp;</p>
<p>To install the new knob, first push the new pawl mechanism and face plate into the side of the door, making sure that the latch faces the same direction that the door will close so that it connects correctly with the strike plate, then screw the face plate into place. Insert the handles into the door so that the pawl&rsquo;s square peg fits into its slot in each knob, the screw holes align with threaded cylinders on each side, and any levers and locks face the right direction&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> then screw each knob plate into place. Finish it off by screwing on the strike plate.</p>
<h3>16. Change a furnace filter</h3>
<p>Furnace filters should be changed at least every three month&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> and more often if you smoke in your house or have&nbsp;<a href="http://www.askmen.com/money/body_and_mind/59_better_living.html">pets</a>&nbsp;that shed heavily. First, remove the vent cover&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> depending on the furnace model, this will either be a large ventilation grate in the wall, floor or ceiling or else in the furnace itself. Look to see if there are arrows on the screen&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> some models have to face a specific direction to function&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> and note which direction they point. Put the old filter directly in a garbage bag (or else it&rsquo;ll spread dust everywhere), then slide in the new filter, making sure it faces the correct direction, and replace the vent cover.</p>
<h3>17. Replace a screen window</h3>
<p>Take down the window frame and lay it on a flat surface. Pry the old screen out of its frame. If the frame is wood, you can rip the old screen out of the staples or nails used to attach it; if the frame&rsquo;s metal or vinyl, look for a black rubber seal, the spline, and use a screwdriver to pry the spline out. Roll the new screen over the top of the frame, then cut it so that there&rsquo;s one inch of extra screen around the frame&rsquo;s edges.&nbsp;<br /><br />For a wood frame, use a hammer or staple gun to attach the stretched screen to the outside of the frame. For a metal or vinyl frame, use a spline tool or putty knife to force the spline and the screen into the window groove. Secure one corner of the screen and pull the rest of the screen tight as you work your way around the frame, then use a screwdriver to attach the spline and screen into the frame&rsquo;s groove in each corner. Finish it up by cutting away any excess screen, then return the frame to the window.</p>
<h3>18. Paint like a pro</h3>
<p>While pretty much anyone can paint indoor walls, doing it right means taking steps for a neat, clean job. Before you start, repair any holes or scuffs in the wall with spackle. Prep the room for painting: Cover the floor and any furniture you can&rsquo;t move with a canvas or plastic sheet, taping down its edges, and remove any light switch plates and electrical outlet covers and cover those with tape too.&nbsp;<br /><br />Next, use a pole-sander and 120-grit sandpaper to sand the walls&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> this helps the wall take paint better and more evenly&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> then vacuum the sanding dust off the walls and run a wet cloth or sponge all over the walls. Apply lines of painter&rsquo;s tape wherever there is an edge that isn&rsquo;t being painted&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> the floor, around the ceiling and any wall you don&rsquo;t want to be on the same color. Take some care with this, as uneven or hastily applied tape will create a sloppy line to your paint.</p>
<p>You might need to apply a coat of primer, a lighter coat of paint that helps your final color pop. You should definitely prime the wall if it&rsquo;s never been painted, if you spackled any damaged spots, if the existing paint is glossy or if you&rsquo;re painting over a darker colour. Let your primer coat fully dry before you start painting&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> an hour minimum for latex-based paints, and at least eight hours for other kinds.&nbsp;</p>
<p>For the main act, start by using an angled brush to paint a 2-inch line in each corner. For the walls themselves, you should use a roller. First wet the roller, then dip it into the paint colour and roll it in the paint try until it&rsquo;s evenly coated. Apply the paint all over the walls in M and W-shaped motions, then let the paint dry.</p>
<h3>19. Stop a toilet that runs</h3>
<p>A&nbsp;<a href="http://www.askmen.com/fine_living/how_to_400/461_toilet-etiquette.html">toilet</a>&nbsp;that &ldquo;runs,&rdquo; or where the tank is constantly refilling with water, is one of the easiest&nbsp;<a href="http://www.askmen.com/money/how_to_300/319_how_to.html">handyman fixes</a>. The culprit is likely the flapper valve, a rubber flap in the toilet tank that controls the flow of water into the bowl.</p>
<p>Remove the toilet tank lid and set it aside. Inside the tank you&rsquo;ll find a balloon-like ball called an overflow tube, which should lie flush with the tank&rsquo;s waterline; the tube will be attached to flapper guides, arms secured to the rubber flapper at the tank&rsquo;s base. A common problem is that the chain or rod that connects the flapper to the flapper guides breaks or snaps free; if this is the case, just replace or reattach the piece and the toilet should flush as normal. If the chain is still attached but is slack, then you need to adjust its length&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> simply disconnect the wire from the flapper guide and reconnect it to a different hole in the bar.</p>
<h3>20. Change a light switch</h3>
<p>First, shut off the power. Turn the power off at the breaker&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> and make sure to test that you&rsquo;ve flipped the right breaker and the power&rsquo;s definitely off before you start meddling with electricity, preferably with a voltage tester.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Use a screwdriver to remove the switch plate cover, then unscrew the switch&rsquo;s mounting screws (usually found at the top and bottom) from the electrical box and pull the switch out if the wall with the wires still attached. There will be two or three wires attached to the switch: an incoming hot wire (black), a return wire (any color except green) and maybe a grounding wire (either green or plain copper)&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> although exceptions abound. Use a Phillips screwdriver to unscrew the wires from the switch, then cut the wire connection or use needle-nose pliers to remove the wires from the terminals. Remove the insulation from each wire with wire strippers, and use needle-nose pliers to make a small loop at the end of each wire. Get ready to connect the new switch, but make sure it&rsquo;s in the right position&nbsp;<span class="st">&mdash;</span> the switch turned down with the word &ldquo;off&rdquo; showing.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Attach the wires to the new switch in the same positions where they were connected in the old switch, hooking the loops over the new switch&rsquo;s terminals and then tightening them. Mount the new switch into the electrical box and reattach the switch&rsquo;s face plate.<br /><br /></p>
<h2>More From AskMen:</h2>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.askmen.com/sports/bodybuilding/set-realistic-health-goals.html">Why You Should Give Up Believing That Your Workouts Should Be Fun</a></strong><br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.askmen.com/sports/foodcourt/diet-plan.html">We Tested Four Popular Diets To See Which One Is Best</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.askmen.com/entertainment/special_feature/13-really-stupid-kitchen-gadgets-you-should-never-buy.html">13 Really Stupid Kitchen Gadgets You Should Never Buy<br /><br /></a></strong></p>
</div><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/10-ways-to-talk-about-yourself-without-sounding-like-a-jerk-2014-3" >10 Ways To Brag About Yourself Without Sounding Like A Jerk</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/20-handyman-skills-that-everyone-should-have-2014-3#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/before-and-after-photos-an-ohio-family-turned-their-living-room-into-a-sports-bar-2013-10An Ohio Family Turned Their Living Room Into A Sports Barhttp://www.businessinsider.com/before-and-after-photos-an-ohio-family-turned-their-living-room-into-a-sports-bar-2013-10
Tue, 08 Oct 2013 18:31:04 -0400Mitchell Parker
<p><span><img style="float:right;" src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/525318af69bedd1f2c46cbfb-480-/home-design-1.png" border="0" alt="home design" width="480" />Unique design always begins with a dilemma. Sherry and Keith Gregor's was twofold. </span></p>
<p><span></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">For one, they&rsquo;d spent 10 years trying to figure out just what to do with their 500-square-foot </span><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/family-room" target="_blank">family room</a><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">. </span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Then one afternoon they sat down with their two teenage sons in the room to watch sports and realized that their favorite football teams &mdash; the NFL&rsquo;s Cincinnati Bengals and the University of Cincinnati Bearcats &mdash; were playing at the same time.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><span><span>To solve the second dilemma, they hauled in an extra TV and watched both games side by side. </span></span></p>
<p><span><span></span></span><span>&ldquo;Out of laziness it stayed that way for a while," Sherry says. "Then I got to thinking, 'This could work. Why not just turn it into a sports bar?'&rdquo;</span></p>
<p><span></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">After all, while the decor exuded family on the surface &mdash; a large family photo hung over the </span><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/fireplaces" target="_blank">fireplace</a><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">, and the word "family" was displayed on a shelf &mdash; the space didn't quite function for their actual needs. </span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">This is a family who loves sports. Keith was a championship point guard for the University of Cincinnati; his father played in the NBA in the late '60s and '70s; Sherry had season tickets to the Cincinnati Reds growing up; and their 14-year-old son is a sports nut, too.</span></p>
<h2><strong>Before</strong></h2>
<p><img src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/52531435ecad04fb4b4e65be-500-376/home-design-1.jpg" border="0" alt="home" width="800" style="color: #000000;" /><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">&ldquo;Everything we did, it didn&rsquo;t look like it filled up the room," Sherry says. "I never liked it. In 10 years it never looked decent."&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">The only logical thing to do was build a sports bar.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><strong style="font-size: 1.5em; color: #000000;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">After</span></strong><img src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/5253143569bedd9a1e46cc06-500-376/traditional-media-room.jpg" border="0" alt="media room" width="800" style="line-height: 1.5em;" /><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">A</span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">nd now ... game on. The room has everything a sports fan could want: multiple TVs, a full bar, two fridges for wine and beer, stadium-style recliner seats, a padded booth and memorabilia signed by some of baseball's and football's greatest athletes.&nbsp;</span><img src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/5253157169bedd702646cbfb-800-600/bar1-2.png" border="0" alt="bar1" width="800" style="line-height: 1.5em;" /><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">But while the Gregors had the vision, they needed someone to build it. They met custom </span><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/barefoot081/transformations-custom-wood-design" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">wood designer Doug Roth</a><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"> at the Cincinnati Home &amp; Garden show and explained their plan, not sure if they'd be met with confusion or open arms. &ldquo;I was like, &lsquo;Sweet!&rsquo;&rdquo; Roth says. &ldquo;I love to do something nobody else has.&rdquo;</span></p>
<p><span></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">He told them he wanted to make it look like the Fox and the Hound Irish pub in Cincinnati, a dark-paneled, masculine-leaning space. &ldquo;I instantly knew exactly what this needs to look like,&rdquo; he says.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">After checking out the pub, the Gregors said "cheers" to Roth's approach. "Once those paneled walls went up, it grew even bigger and turned out really awesome,&rdquo; Sherry says</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">They originally wanted all the TVs on the fireplace wall, figuring since they never really made fires, they'd just tear it down.&nbsp;But Roth found that if the attention was pointed the other way, they&rsquo;d get 2 extra feet of space behind the seats, giving them room for a corner booth.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Now a&nbsp;65-inch TV hangs above the fireplace mantel, which is adorned with football helmets from various teams: the University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati Bengals, Oak Hills high school and Ohio State University</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">On the main viewing wall, two 60-inch TVs flank an 80-inch one in the center, above which is a ticker that continuously scrolls sports scores and news.&nbsp;The room has two coolers on the left &mdash; one for wine, another for beer and soda. Above them LEDs illuminate hard liquor bottles. Roth designed the cabinets and added columns for extra detail.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">The wall panels are stained solid maple 1-by-4s. The center is one big piece that Roth constructed in the living room, then hoisted up.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">The Gregors bought this padded vinyl&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/dining-chairs-and-benches" target="_blank">bench</a><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">&nbsp;online. Roth then added trim to the bottom to make it blend in with the millwork. He designed the table, too.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">The jersey, photos and small shelf of championship rings are from Keith&rsquo;s college days. The large bobble head is the Cincinnati Reds mascot.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">The red bench back is from the old Riverfront Stadium's seat number 5. It&rsquo;s signed by former Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench, whose team number was 5.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Photos and bats signed by Cincinnati Reds players are also displayed.</span></p>
<p>Keith and Sherry met at a Taco Bell in college &mdash; she attended Ohio State University &mdash; and a neon sign reminds them of their early days as a couple.</p>
<p>The room is set up with a raised platform and stadium-style seating. The Gregors' oldest teenage son loves theater and film, so the space functions as an incredible movie-watching room, too.&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">But, of course, with a drastic transformation like this, there are bound to be naysayers questioning your judgment. The Gregors simply plowed forward like they were returning a punt.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">&ldquo;My dad was like, &lsquo;Why would you do that?&rsquo;" Sherry says. "Even the neighbors said, &lsquo;Why don&rsquo;t you do it in the basement?&rsquo; Because I don&rsquo;t want to go down to the basement," she says. "Everyone always hangs out in the&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/kitchen" target="_blank">kitchen</a><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">. It just made sense to do it all in one area. Of course, they all love it now. Now that they&rsquo;ve seen it, everyone has changed their mind. It&rsquo;s been packed ever since.&rdquo;</span></p>
<div><strong>More From Houzz:</strong><br /><br />Browse&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/living-room">family room ideas</a>, from sectional&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/sofas">couches</a> to a unique&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/chandeliers">chandelier</a>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/chandeliers" target="_blank"></a>and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/floor-lamps">floor lamp</a>, for your next&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designer#">interior design</a> project.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Hire local&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/home-builders#">custom home builders</a> or top&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractor#">general contractors</a> in your area to design and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com">build a home</a> for you.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Find inspiring&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com">decorating</a><a href="http://www.houzz.com/" target="_blank"></a> ideas, from tufted&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/headboards">bed headboards</a>&nbsp;<span></span>to custom&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/window-treatments">window treatments</a>, to help you redesign your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/bedroom">bedroom</a>&nbsp;.<br /><br /></div><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/before-and-after-photos-an-ohio-family-turned-their-living-room-into-a-sports-bar-2013-10#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/save-on-your-next-major-appliance-2013-810 Ways To Save On Your Next Major Appliancehttp://www.businessinsider.com/save-on-your-next-major-appliance-2013-8
Tue, 27 Aug 2013 17:46:57 -0400Mary Hiers
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/51fa75a769bedd8a5c000006-480-/appliance-1.jpg" border="0" alt="appliance" width="480" /></p><p>Buying a new major appliance isn&rsquo;t everyone&rsquo;s idea of a good time. Often, life events prompt these purchases.</p>
<p>When the doctor says it&rsquo;s twins, your aging washer-dryer stack doesn&rsquo;t look like it will be up to the demands that are about to be placed on it.</p>
<p>When your refrigerator struggles to keep foods cold, it&rsquo;s time to start searching before it gives out completely and leaves you with a week&rsquo;s worth of ruined food.</p>
<p>Here are 10 ways you can find discounts when it&rsquo;s time to shop for a major appliance.</p>
<h2>Use Online Resources</h2>
<p>Sign up for email alerts with retailers. These will let you know about sales.</p>
<p>If you have a manufacturer in mind, many manufacturer sites allow you to register. While manufacturers rarely sell directly to the public, they sometimes offer rebates you can claim online.</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re in the market for an appliance that can be purchased on Amazon, you can sign up with&nbsp;<a href="http://camelcamelcamel.com/">camelcamelcamel.com</a>&nbsp;to track prices of items on Amazon you have your eye on and be notified via Twitter or email when a price drops.</p>
<h2>Check for Tax Credits on Energy Efficient Appliances</h2>
<p>Some EnergyStar appliances&nbsp;<a href="http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index">still qualify for federal tax credits</a>.</p>
<p>While some tax credits expired at the end of 2011, The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dsireusa.org/incentives/incentive.cfm?Incentive_Code=US42F">renewed this credit retroactively</a>&nbsp;for some appliances manufactured in 2012 and 2013.</p>
<p>Buying energy efficient appliances is recommended anyway, because they require less electricity and can lower utility bills.</p>
<h2>Don&rsquo;t Be Afraid to Negotiate</h2>
<p>There&rsquo;s no rule against asking if you can have a discount for paying cash, or because you have looked at an appliance for months and it hasn&rsquo;t moved.</p>
<p>A&nbsp;<a href="http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine-archive/august-2009/appliances/where-to-buy-appliances/overview/buying-appliances-ov.htm">Consumer Reports article from 2009</a>&nbsp;reported survey results saying only 33% of people who bought major appliances tried to negotiate.</p>
<p>But of those who did try negotiating, around 75% were successful, saving a median of $100 on major appliances.</p>
<h2>Don&rsquo;t Skip Local Independent Businesses</h2>
<p>Local independent businesses often don&rsquo;t have the huge overhead of the big box stores. Furthermore, many local appliance dealers have far better service after the sale.</p>
<p>An appliance you might consider trashing if you bought from a big box store can often be repaired by the technicians at local, smaller dealers.</p>
<p>These businesses are often an overlooked resource when people shop for major appliances.</p>
<h2>Learn if Expensive Accommodations Will Be Necessary</h2>
<p>Some of the hottest new appliances are among the &ldquo;neediest.&rdquo; If your new stainless steel stove creates lots of smoke and steam, you&rsquo;re going to need an exhaust fan.</p>
<p>That high-tech washer-dryer combo can spin with enough fury to rattle a room, and may require floor reinforcements.</p>
<p>Research models online and read customer reviews. The best way to read reviews in general is to throw out the most glowing and the most scathing review, and see what you gather from the rest.</p>
<h2>Scope out Service Options Before You Buy</h2>
<p>What happens if you need service for your new appliance? Ask, and don&rsquo;t buy unless you&rsquo;re satisfied with the answer.</p>
<p>It&rsquo;s possible to buy trendy appliances and not be able to find service technicians nearby who can provide service.</p>
<p>This is particularly true of trendy European or other foreign-designed appliances.</p>
<h2>Shop in September, October, January, May, and on Major Holidays</h2>
<p>Appliance sales are more common in&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_5093874_discount-major-appliances.html">September and October</a>, when many appliance makers reveal new models (and discount last year&rsquo;s) in&nbsp;<a href="http://www.moneycrashers.com/best-time-of-year-buy-large-appliances/">January</a>&nbsp;after the holidays, and in&nbsp;<a href="http://www.moneycrashers.com/best-time-of-year-buy-large-appliances/">May</a>, when refrigerator makers roll out their new models.</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re not afraid of dealing with hardcore discount seekers, consider venturing out on&nbsp;<a href="http://forthemommas.com/articles/on-the-cheap-buying-major-appliances">Black Friday</a>. Deals can be had if you&rsquo;re not afraid of the crowds and don&rsquo;t mind a long wait in line.</p>
<h2>Buy the Floor Model and Consider Returns and Outlets for Discontinued Models</h2>
<p>Floor models have been handled by shoppers, but otherwise, they&rsquo;re like new.</p>
<p>Retailers will often discount a floor model, and some will sell returns for a discount. It always pays to ask.</p>
<p>Be sure about warranty coverage when you buy a floor model or a return, however, so there are no surprises later.</p>
<p>Also consider shopping at closeout centers specializing in discontinued appliances.</p>
<h2>Check if Retailers Price Match or Accept Other Stores&rsquo; Coupons</h2>
<p>As with negotiation, if you don&rsquo;t ask, you&rsquo;ll never know. Some retailers match competitors&rsquo; coupons, and some will price-match other retailers.</p>
<p>Scope out prices at several retailers before you shop, and you&rsquo;ll have the information on hand to present to retailers that do price- or coupon-match.</p>
<h2>Measure</h2>
<p>While this doesn&rsquo;t directly affect the price you&rsquo;ll pay for a given appliance, always measure every hallway and doorway through which the appliance will have to fit.</p>
<p>A couple of minor bumps to the sheetrock can be fixed, but forcing an appliance through a too-snug space can cause damage and may in fact be impossible, in which case you have to send it back and start over.</p>
<p>Write down all dimensions through which your appliance must pass, and note any particularly tight turns.</p>
<p>Bring your tape measure shopping with you, to make sure the appliance you choose will fit.</p>
<p><em><a href="https://plus.google.com/117569058123305676760?rel=author">Mary Hiers</a>&nbsp;is a personal finance writer who helps people earn more and spend less.</em></p><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/save-on-your-next-major-appliance-2013-8#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/7-living-room-essentials-for-guys-2013-87 Things That Will Make Every Man's Living Room Look Completehttp://www.businessinsider.com/7-living-room-essentials-for-guys-2013-8
Tue, 20 Aug 2013 10:53:00 -0400Tariq Dixon
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/52122e7cecad04db08000022-480-/details1.jpg" border="0" alt="details1" width="480" /></p><p>Sure, we all know that a living room looks pretty empty without a sofa.</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">And yes, you need somewhere to place your coffee mug.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">But what about all of the other little accoutrements that make a home look and feel complete?</span></p>
<p>Below is our checklist of the living room essentials that you may have overlooked, but are necessary components to any discerning man&rsquo;s lair.</p>
<h2>1. The Accent Chair</h2>
<p>Every king needs a throne - not a lazy-boy recliner. Even if a new sofa is not currently in your budget, an accent chair is a good way to elevate a space without making a huge investment.</p>
<p><strong>TIP:</strong>&nbsp;Whether it be an antique leather cigar lounger or a sleek and slender mid-century dining chair, choose something that will make a statement.</p>
<h2>2. Colorful and Patterned Throw Pillows</h2>
<p><img class="float_left" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/52122f316bb3f7f22c00000a-835-626/details2-1.jpg" border="0" alt="details2" width="480" /><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Pillow shopping may be one of the least exciting activities for many guys - but it must be done.&nbsp;</span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Not only will a bounty of throw pillows help to cover up that unfavorable couch you have yet to replace, they are an easy (and inexpensive) way of adding color and pattern to a room.</span></p>
<p><strong>TIP:&nbsp;</strong>A good way to start is by pairing ethnic fabrics (i.e. ikat or kilim) with solid pillows of complementary colors.</p>
<h2>&nbsp;</h2>
<h2>3. A Statement Rug</h2>
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/52122f58ecad04320b000020-835-626/details3-1.jpg" border="0" alt="details3" width="480" />No, the purpose of an area rug is not to collect the dirt from your shoes. <br /><br />Much like throw pillows, an area rug adds another layer of texture, color and pattern to a space. <br /><br />And given its central placement in most living rooms, it inevitably becomes a focal point.</p>
<p><strong>TIP:</strong>&nbsp;Go for a neutral color with a lot of texture, a bold color, or a graphic print. <br /><br />Look into some of our international favorites, which include Turkish Kilims, Overdyed Orientals and Moroccan Berbers.</p>
<h2>4. Framed Artwork</h2>
<p><img class="float_left" src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/521231446bb3f7082f000058-835-626/framed-artwork.jpg" border="0" alt="Framed artwork" width="480" />Bare, white walls are&hellip;well, sad. <br /><br />They either suggest that you just moved in, or that you simply don&rsquo;t care. I know, I know, mounting, framing and hanging are a pain, but taking the time to do so is absolutely necessary to completing a home.</p>
<p><strong>TIP: </strong>You don&rsquo;t have to create a full gallery wall overnight - start with a few larger pieces and slowly build your collection over time. We recommend trying some modern abstract lithographs for bold color and original black-and-white sketches for character.</p>
<h2>5. Tchotchkes and Mantelpieces</h2>
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/52124d21ecad04924a000008-835-626/tchotchkes-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Tchotchkes" width="480" />Your books need friends. <br /><br />They look sad on your shelves all by their lonesome. <br /><br />Add a few sculptural items to to break up the monotony.</p>
<p><strong>TIP:</strong>&nbsp;These can be anything from ceramics, to figurines, to a rock you picked up on the side of the road. <br /><br />Get creative and have fun.</p>
<h2>6. Coffee Table Literature</h2>
<p><img class="float_left" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/52124d53ecad04484800000f-835-626/coffee-table-books.jpg" border="0" alt="Coffee table books" width="480" />While it may seem that the books sitting on your coffee table receive nary a glance, discerning onlookers certainly take notice. <br /><br />Part entertainment, part decorative, coffee table literature can serve as a sufficient diversion for aloof house guests, but more importantly, display one&rsquo;s broad knowledge of cultural happenings and worldly affairs &ndash; or, at the very least, act as a compelling fa&ccedil;ade.</p>
<p><strong>TIP:</strong> Glossy art books are always a great option, but we also recommend independent quarterlies, vintage magazines and art zines for variety.<br /><br /></p>
<h2>7. The Conversation Piece</h2>
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/52124d826bb3f7666500002a-835-626/conversation-piece.jpg" border="0" alt="conversation piece" width="480" />Avoid future bouts of awkward silence by buying a couple of random things that serve no functional purpose. <br /><br />Whether it&rsquo;s a fossilized antelope carcass, or 7 ft tall sculpture of a dart, these pieces not only make for great stories, but add a tremendous amount of character to a space.</p>
<p><strong>TIP:</strong>&nbsp;A good place to start looking may actually be your parents&rsquo; basement - its even better when these items have personal meaning. If not, scour your local antique shops - if an item instantly catches your eye, it will likely do the same for your guests.<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" title="TRNK New York" /><img class="float_left" src="https://si0.twimg.com/profile_images/1652306326/DETAILS_Twitter_logo.jpg" border="0" width="200" height="200" /><strong></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.details.com/blogs/daily-details/2013/08/aaron-levine-of-club-monaco.html?mbid=synd_bizinsider/"><strong>Club Monaco's Aaron Levine's Rules Of Style</strong></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.details.com/style-advice/perfect-wardrobe/201309/bold-colored-mens-suits-shirts-jackets-pants-for-fall#slide=1?mbid=synd_bizinsider/"><strong>Fall Fashion's Flying Colors</strong></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.details.com/blogs/daily-details/2013/08/the-next-superfood-is-here.html?mbid=synd_bizinsider/"><strong>The Next Superfood Is Here</strong><strong></strong></a><br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.details.com/celebrities-entertainment/music-and-books/201308/lori-nix-post-apocalypse-photography-book-the-city#slide=1?mbid=synd_bizinsider/">Jaw-Dropping Photos Of Post-Apocalyptic Dioramas <br /></a></strong></p><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/7-living-room-essentials-for-guys-2013-8#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/5-simple-ways-to-upgrade-your-home-2013-7Upgrade Your Home With Luxuries That Won't Break The Bankhttp://www.businessinsider.com/5-simple-ways-to-upgrade-your-home-2013-7
Thu, 08 Aug 2013 10:36:00 -0400Deborah Abrams Kaplan
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/51f952546bb3f71e22000020-480-/luxury-bathroom.jpg" border="0" alt="luxury bathroom" width="480" /></p><p>Even in these days of economic uncertainty, we'd all like some luxuries in our lives. Sure, a home addition or kitchen renovation would be nice, but there are plenty of low-cost changes you can make to upgrade your home without spending a small fortune. Adding in little touches here and there can make a regular room stand out and are an easy way to provide a bit of extravagance.</p>
<p>Here are five types of home luxuries you can acquire that won't break the bank.</p>
<p><strong>Wine Coolers</strong></p>
<p>Wine cellars are big sellers in new homes, but there are space- and price-conscious ways to bring wines to the appropriate temperature in a snazzy way. "A unique wine cooler is one of those small features that really speaks to people," says Yuma, Ariz., homeowner and landlord Molly Blake, who installed built-in wine coolers in her rental-home kitchens and her own home.</p>
<p>A wine cooler can also help sell or rent a home. "My renters said it was one of the top three reasons they chose our house," Blake says. "The coolers are not necessarily about wine, but more about small, inexpensive upgrades that show you are not just building or renting out a house, but a home."</p>
<p>Ben Argov, co-owner of International Wine Accessories in Cotati, Calif., agrees. "It shows it's a more affluent, sophisticated consumer, and it adds value to the home."</p>
<p>Wine coolers come in a variety of sizes. Tabletop coolers store up to 12 bottles at the proper serving temperature and cost around $100 to $150. Undercounter built-ins will run you a bit more -- from $600 to $1,900 -- but they come in 15- or 24-inch sizes and usually store 30 to 50 bottles of wine. Once the space under the counter is open, they're easy to install. All you need to do is plug in the cooler and slide it into place.</p>
<p><strong>Spa Shower</strong></p>
<p>The bathroom is the place where we like to pamper ourselves. Without remodeling the room, there are plenty of luxurious changes that won't cost a fortune, says Annette Denham, a kitchen and bath designer and general remodel contractor with Ultimate Kitchens and Baths in Gilbert, Ariz. One idea, she says, is to switch out the regular shower head for a "rain" shower head. These are typically installed from the ceiling, but you can also install a rain shower head that attaches to the wall via an extension arm.</p>
<p>Another way to upgrade the shower head without re-plumbing is to install a sliding vertical bar with a hand-held shower head, says Denham. "You can raise and lower it based on the height of the family member," she says. "The advantage of a handheld is that it's easier to clean the shower or tub. With a shower head only, it makes it difficult to clean. Plus, there are so many different options for shower heads. You've got soft flow, massaging, different strengths, body sprays."</p>
<p>Love stepping out of the shower into a cozy towel? Install a heated towel bar. "I'm a really huge fan of heated towel bars because in most areas, towels don't necessarily dry as quickly as we'd like them to. It's nice to have a warm towel," Denham says. For those who don't want to hardwire the towel bar into their wall, there are plug-in models for both the floor and wall that run $125 to $2,000, she says.</p>
<p><strong>Indoor Fireplace</strong></p>
<p>Have you always wanted a fireplace in your house but don't have a chimney? Thanks to electric and gel fireplaces, you can now add one that gives off heat and flickering flames without the need for a flue.</p>
<p>Whether mounting it on the wall or setting it on the floor, a freestanding fireplace can easily make a room feel cozier.</p>
<p>"I'm seeing the trend with electric fireplaces," says John Hoang, president of PortableFireplace.com. "Consumers are buying more, especially with wall-mounted units, after seeing them in restaurants and in places like Las Vegas." Denham agrees, saying the long, rectangular gel units are gaining popularity with her clients.</p>
<p>Electric fireplaces have improved in recent years, and flames no longer look fake, says Hoang. "LED (lighting) technology allows the embers to glow just like pulsating embers. A lot of people confuse them with real fire," he says.</p>
<p>In contrast, gel fireplaces use canisters with gel fuel -- the flames are real. Hoang says that 90 percent of his customers purchase electric units because they're safer around children and there's no fuel to purchase.</p>
<p>Styles for gel and electric fireplaces vary from traditional to modern and generally cost between $300 and $1,000.</p>
<p>Because these aren't built into the wall, these kinds of fireplaces can be moved around the room anytime. The fireplaces can even be used outdoors, but the heat won't be as effective, Hoang says.</p>
<p><strong>Sound System</strong></p>
<p>Big, fancy houses often have elaborate screening rooms and intricate sound systems on which to play their movies and music. But you don't need to spend a fortune to get the most out of your TV and music collection.</p>
<p>One simple solution is a "home theater in a box," says David Berman, vice president and general manager at Stereo East Home Theater Design Studio in Frisco, Texas. The system provides five speakers, an amplifier and subwoofer for one room, starting at $299, though the better ones are generally around $1,000, he says. You can also plug your other tech items up to it, such as a Blu-ray player, stereo system or computer.</p>
<p>"It's very inexpensive for someone who's looking to get better sound than (their) TV is capable of," he says, noting that as televisions become flatter and thinner, there's no room for decent stereos inside.</p>
<p>If you want a full sound-system solution, talk to a specialist, says Berman. Get quotes on an entire system, not individual components. Then get pricing for the best available system, an inexpensive one that does the same thing but lower quality, and something in the middle, to see what fits your budget best.</p>
<p><strong>Indoor Bar</strong></p>
<p>"People like having a separate entertaining area," says Denham, but you don't have to build an extra room onto your house to create one. Instead, carve out a space where bar furniture can be a novel conversation piece. Keep it simple with an old-fashioned bar cart stocked with your favorite spirits, says Denham. "That's more of a luxury statement to me," she says. "There are really nice bar carts in brass, stainless steel and glass." Often it would be part of the dining room.</p>
<p>If you want something more permanent, Denham suggests installing one or two base cabinets with open, thick glass shelves above and a mirrored back. You can stack your glasses and bottles on the shelves or add some stainless steel bar racks on the ceiling for the glasses.</p>
<p>You can also opt for a piece of wine furniture, which comes in different shapes and sizes, ranging from a cabinet to an armoire to an actual bar with electrical outlets, lighting and space for a small refrigerator. Argov says prices are generally $700 to $2,300. The furniture usually is not plumbed, but comes with drawers and surfaces for preparing and serving drinks. "We have seen an uptick in wine furniture sales," says Argov.</p><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/5-simple-ways-to-upgrade-your-home-2013-7#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/what-material-to-choose-for-a-deck-2013-7How To Choose The Perfect Deck For Your Househttp://www.businessinsider.com/what-material-to-choose-for-a-deck-2013-7
Sat, 03 Aug 2013 15:45:00 -0400Vanessa Brunner
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/51f9271669bedd8770000000-480-/contemporary-patio-1.jpg" border="0" alt="contemporary patio" width="480" /></p><p>Before you choose between plastic and wood for your decking, ask yourself one question: Where is your deck? <br /><br />If your <a href="http://www.houzz.com/deck" target="_blank">deck</a> is in the sun or in the shade for the majority of the day &mdash; particularly in summer, when it will be used most &mdash; you'll want to choose the material that will be comfortable in that spot on the hottest days of the year. <br /><br />Of course, size, cost, style and maintenance should factor into your decision, too. <br /><br />We talked to four decking <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals" target="_blank">experts</a> from across the country to find out how to choose a decking material.</p>
<p><strong>Types of Decking</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Plastic: 100 percent plastic decking is stain resistant and won't crack, warp or splinter. It doesn't require any finishing. Some plastic decking is made from new plastic; others are partially or completely recycled.</li>
<li>Composite: This decking is made from wood fibers (usually recycled maple sawdust) and recycled plastic. Dense, weather and stain resistant, it won't splinter, warp or rot.</li>
<li>Wood: Most of today's wood decks are made of cedar, redwood (pictured), pressure-treated pine or ipe, a sustainable tropical wood. You can find sustainably produced versions of most hardwoods, including bamboo, cedar, redwood and ipe. Make sure to buy wood from a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified company to avoid illegally harvested wood.</li>
</ul>
<p>Charlie Jourdain, President of the <a href="http://www.calredwood.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">California Redwood Association</a>, says substantially more people have started using plastic and composite decking over the past 10 years, and Denny Rossi of <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/sealitgreen/eco-outlet" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Seal It Green</a> agrees. "Michigan seems to favor plastic and composite decking, and now plastic-capped composites as the ever-growing field of less maintenance materials evolves," Rossi says. <br /><br />Clemens Jellema of <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/finedecks/fine-decks-inc" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Fine Decks Inc.</a> in Maryland now installs almost all composite decking for his clients. Capped composite decking, in particular &mdash; where the composite is covered in a thin, plastic material &mdash; has become popular for its durability and quick installation.</p>
<p><img src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/51f925eb6bb3f72454000000-1069-801/traditional-deck-1.jpg" border="0" alt="traditional deck" width="800" /><strong><br />Heat Resistance</strong><br />"At the time composites and plastics were made, there wasn't a lot of thought as to how they'd perform in heat," Jourdain says. <br /><br />While composites and plastics have their benefits, comfort on a hot day is not one of them. "Composites and plastics can get so hot, you can't walk on them barefoot," Rossi says. Capped composites are no different. "The plastic layer surrounding the composite holds heat," Jellema says. "But the lighter the color, the less heat it holds."<br /><br /><em>This photo: Azek plastic decking<br /><img src="http://static6.businessinsider.com/image/51f9268969bedd166e000001-1061-796/houzz-4.jpg" border="0" alt="houzz" width="800" /><br /><br /></em> For this reason, many professionals recommend using wood in climates with extra hot summers. Tropical woods, such as ipe and teak, wear and weather well. However, some of this wood is dark, so it holds more heat than lighter woods, such as the commonly used pressure-treated Southern yellow pine. Redwood tends to be the West Coast's &mdash; primarily California's &mdash; predominant decking material due to its reasonable price tag, low maintenance and cool surface. "Redwood is definitely the cheapest material in California because there's so much of it," says California contractor <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/bonnyweilgeneralcontractor/bonny-weil-general-contractor" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Bonny Weil</a>. "Manufacturing costs are very low, versus a composite decking board that might take a lot of time to make, so it tends to be about twice as much."<em><em> <br /><br /><em>This photo: </em><em>Pine decking<br /><img src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/51f927bceab8ead658000010-1069-801/pine.jpg" border="0" alt="pine" width="800" /><br /><br /> </em></em></em><strong>Maintenance<br /></strong>No matter what material you choose for your deck, it's going to need maintenance &mdash; a minimum of one annual cleaning. Most composites and plastics need a regularly applied finish (once or twice a year) to keep from fading, but most decking wood can be left finished or unfinished. While wood is more susceptible to rot and warping, mold spots are more difficult to remove from composite and plastic decking.<em><em><em><br /><br /><em>This photo:</em> <em>Redwood decking</em> <img src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/51f92754ecad04353c000005-1200-900/contemporary-deck1-1.jpg" border="0" alt="contemporary deck1" width="800" /> </em></em></em><strong>Cost<br /></strong>Composite or plastic decking can be twice as expensive as wooden decking because the materials cost more and the structure tends to be more extensive. Composite decking isn't as stiff as lumber, so it generally needs more support to prevent sagging. This can easily add hundreds of dollars to your decking cost. <br /><br />Here are some average prices for a completed deck per square foot, according to Rossi and Jellema. Note that prices will vary according to location, design features and construction costs.<em><em><em><em><em><br /><br /></em></em></em></em></em><strong>Estimated price for a complete deck per square foot: </strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Pressure-treated wood: $15-$25</li>
<li>Cedar: $24-$45</li>
<li>Composite: $32-$45</li>
<li>Redwood: $30</li>
<li>Top-end plastic: $48</li>
<li>Ipe: $55<em><em></em><br /></em></li>
</ul>
<p><em><em><em><strong><strong>More From Houzz:<br /></strong></strong></em></em></em></p>
<ul>
<li>Ideas for your&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/living-room">living spaces</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/lighting">lighting</a> and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/landscape">landscape</a> design.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Discover inspiring&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/landscape">landscaping ideas</a> and find a top local&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-contractors">landscape contractor</a> or residential&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architect">landscape architect</a><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architect" target="_blank"></a> to plan your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/landscape">garden landscape</a></li>
<li>When remodeling or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com">building a house</a><a href="http://www.houzz.com/" target="_blank"></a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/landscape">landscape gardens</a>, or patio, don't forget curb appeal.&nbsp;</li>
</ul><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-material-to-choose-for-a-deck-2013-7#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/make-your-old-home-appeal-to-young-buyer-2013-78 Ways To Sell Your Old Home To Young Buyershttp://www.businessinsider.com/make-your-old-home-appeal-to-young-buyer-2013-7
Mon, 08 Jul 2013 16:26:00 -0400Michele Lerner
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><img style="float:right;" src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/51db0af8eab8eaed4f000006-480-/home-buyers.jpg" border="0" alt="home buyers" width="480" />Selling any home can be challenging, depending on the market. But if you have an old home and want to appeal to young buyers in their 20s and early 30s, you may need to take some extra steps.</span></p>
<p>First, you'll need to assuage the fears of those young buyers about maintaining a home that was around during the real "Mad Men" days. Second, you'll need to showcase the features that have the most appeal to young couples and families. The following eight tips won't cost a lot of money, and they could reap you an early offer.</p>
<p><strong>Pre-inspect your home</strong></p>
<p>One of the most difficult decisions for home sellers is to figure out how much to spend on home improvements before putting the house on the market.</p>
<p>"I always recommend paying for a home inspection, especially if the owners are elderly and have not had the money or energy to keep the house in good repair," says Lane Tharp, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dunwoody, Ga. "An inspection will help determine if there's anything that absolutely must be done before putting the house on the market."</p>
<p>In addition to a general home inspection, Debby Strott, manager of Weichert Realtors' Morristown West office in Morristown, N .J., recommends that homeowners get the heating and air-conditioning system cleaned and inspected. She suggests having septic systems pumped.</p>
<p>"This provides peace of mind for buyers," Strott says. "You can put the service contract or reports with your marketing materials."</p>
<p><strong>Buy a home warranty</strong></p>
<p>Strott recommends that sellers buy home warranties that cover repairs for the systems (electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling) and appliances in the home. Most home warranties are available as one-year policies and provide coverage while the property is on the market and after the closing.</p>
<p>A home warranty costs around $300 to $400 and reassures buyers that they won't be faced with a major repair expense in their first year of homeownership, Strott says.</p>
<p><strong>Offer a possible expansion or renovation plan</strong></p>
<p>"Most Realtors know a contractor, so it would be fairly simple for a Realtor to get a ballpark estimate of sample fit-and-finish renovation projects such as replacing the flooring or renovating a bathroom," says Scott Lacey, a renovation specialist with Weichert Financial Services in North Providence, R.I. "Younger buyers don't always realize that everything they see can be changed with a renovation. If they like the home based on the location, the schools and the general style, they can be persuaded to buy if they can see the possibilities that come with a renovation."</p>
<p>Sellers can pay for simple drawings that show some renovation options that would work well with the home's configuration and its lot.</p>
<p>Strott recommends that sellers find out about any permit issues with an expansion such as height or setback restrictions or wetland and to include that information with marketing materials.</p>
<p><strong>Provide renovation loan information</strong></p>
<p>Mortgages are available that allow homebuyers to borrow money to buy the home plus money to pay for renovations. The most popular renovation mortgage program is called the FHA 203(k). The loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration .</p>
<p>"Younger buyers who are looking at homes that are 20 or 30 years old are likely to look at the kitchen and baths and want to renovate," Lacey says. "A seller can provide information about an FHA 203(k) loan with their marketing materials to show buyers that they can wrap renovation costs into their mortgage."</p>
<p>Lacey says listing agents should prepare a cost analysis of a standard mortgage and an FHA 203(k) loan to demonstrate the availability of the loan program and to show buyers what the mortgage payments would be based on prospective renovation plans at various price points such as $5,000, $25,000 or $50,000.</p>
<p><strong>Offer a credit for repairs</strong></p>
<p>"Sellers don't always have the money or the energy to make repairs themselves, and besides, some buyers will want to do renovations their own way," Strott says. "You can offer a credit back for repairs, and suggest to buyers that your home could be an opportunity for them to make it reflect their own personality."</p>
<p>While repair credits are often part of the negotiating process, if you know some things will need fixing, you can provide information about the credit upfront to prospective buyers, so they know they won't have to pay for a new furnace as soon as they move in.</p>
<p><strong>Lighten and brighten your home</strong></p>
<p>"Homes that were built decades ago are darker with smaller windows, so to compensate for that, you need to remove the heavy window treatments and clean the windows to make sure as much light as possible is coming in," Tharp says. "Use the brightest light bulbs you can and update your light fixtures."</p>
<p>Trim shrubs covering windows, remove old carpet from hardwood floors and remove dark, heavy furniture.</p>
<p>Strott says, "Keep it simple: Get rid of your collections and sentimental things, so buyers can visualize themselves in the home."</p>
<p><strong>Highlight neighborhood amenities</strong></p>
<p>Younger buyers often are interested in schools, even if they don't have children yet, Tharp says.</p>
<p>"Your marketing materials should mention everything that appeals to young couples and families such as the location near commuter routes or public transportation, swimming pools, tennis courts, a gym, or nearby shops and restaurants," Tharp says. "You need to think about what young buyers are most interested in, and then market your house accordingly."</p>
<p>If your home has a great yard or a prime location within a subdivision close to the elementary school or a park, you should make sure that's highlighted in your marketing, Strott says.</p>
<p><strong>Paint your home in neutral colors</strong></p>
<div class="brSlide">
<div>
<p>The old rule of thumb used to be that sellers were supposed to paint their rooms white in order to appeal to all buyers. These days, white rooms tend to look boring, especially to younger buyers. Tharp says buyers like neutral colors other than white.</p>
<p>"Young buyers like what I call Pottery Barn colors," says Strott. "Check out their stores or a catalog, and you'll see the palette has soft earth tones, off-whites, beige and pale gray. You don't want superpersonal color choices, but you can go with a neutral and a contrasting trim color."</p>
</div>
</div><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/make-your-old-home-appeal-to-young-buyer-2013-7#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-save-on-home-improvement-2013-7Don't Let Your Summer Home Improvement Project Spin Out Of Controlhttp://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-save-on-home-improvement-2013-7
Thu, 04 Jul 2013 10:52:00 -0400Matt Brownell
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/51cdac686bb3f7944d00001a-480-/home-improvement.jpg" border="0" alt="home improvement" width="480" /></p><p>Summer is a great time for tackling some home improvement, but it can be a budget-buster.<br /><br />That's true even if you're doing a small-scale DIY project like retiling your patio or installing new bathroom fixtures in your bathroom. You may not be paying a contractor, but the cost of materials can certainly set you back.<br /><br />Smart shopping can save you plenty. And if you need financing for the project, there are ways to borrow a bit of cash that won't leave you hamstrung by high-interest debt.<br /><br />Here are a few tips for sprucing up your digs without emptying your pockets.</p>
<p><strong>Finance it like this...</strong></p>
<p><strong></strong><br />If you think your project is going to cost more than you've got on hand, you'll need to find some ways to borrow cash. Depending on your credit rating, a new credit card might be a good way to do so, says John Kiernan, a senior analyst at credit-card comparison site&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cardhub.com/" target="_blank">CardHub</a>.<br /><br />"The current credit card landscape lends itself" to summer fix-up projects, he says. "We're seeing issuers roll out especially attractive offers in terms of perks for people with a really good credit rating."<br /><br />Those offers often involve 0% interest on all purchases within the first several months, giving you plenty of time to pay back what you spent on fixtures and fittings without racking up additional charges. The Citi Diamond Preferred Card, for instance, offers 0% interest for the first 18 months. If you've got average credit, he recommends the Capital One Classic Platinum, which has a 0% introductory APR through April 2014.<br /><br />Some rewards cards also offer bonus cash-back in the home improvement category. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.discover.com/credit-cards/cashback-bonus/cashback-calendar.html" target="_blank">Discover It card</a>, for instance, is currently granting you 5% cash back on up to $1,500 spent at home improvement stores. The bad news? That's for the quarter ending June 30, so if you're planning a project for the Fourth of July weekend, you'd better act fast.<br /><br /><strong>...But Don't Finance it Like This</strong><br /><br />We'll reiterate a warning we've given before: Be very careful of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/12/03/5-best-credit-cards-holiday-shopping-and-one-to-avoid/" target="_blank">deferred financing plans</a>&nbsp;offered by store credit cards. Both&nbsp;<a href="http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/catalog/servlet/ContentView?pn=Credit_Center&amp;storeId=10051&amp;langId=-1&amp;catalogId=10053" target="_blank">Home Depot</a>&nbsp;(<a href="http://www.dailyfinance.com/quote/nyse/home-depot/hd" target="_blank">HD</a>) and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lowes.com/cd_Lowes+Credit+Center+Apply+for+Credit+or+Pay+Your+Bill+Online_781778798_?cm_sp=NoDivision-_-Credit|BottomRail-_-Content|Special_Financing_Get_Details" target="_blank">Lowe's</a>&nbsp;(<a href="http://www.dailyfinance.com/quote/nyse/lowes/low" target="_blank">LOW</a>) offer cards that feature 0% financing for six months on purchases over $299; that means that if you get one of these cards and put a few hundred bucks on it, you can pay it off over the course of the next six months without paying a dime of interest. In that sense, they're similar to cards with 0% introductory financing, like the Citi Diamond Preferred.<br /><br />But the big difference is that if you haven't paid it off by the end of the introductory period, you don't just start paying interest on the unpaid balance, as you would on an ordinary card. Instead, you're hit with retroactive interest: As Lowe's explains in the fine print, "Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the promotional purchase is not paid in full within 6 months."<br /><br />Getting charged six months' worth of interest is going to sting, so only take this offer if you're 100 percent sure you can pay it off within six months.<br /><br /><strong>Shop Around, and Don't Buy New...</strong><br /><br />It's tempting to begin and end your search at the home improvement superstore -- between Sears, Lowe's and Home Depot, you're sure to find anything you need.<br /><br />But don't let the glittering brand names blind you to shopping around.<br /><br />Want to get some power tools? Check out&nbsp;<a href="http://www.harborfreight.com/" target="_blank">Harbor Freight</a>&nbsp;for deep discounts. But if you don't think you'll use that circular saw more than once, consider renting one --&nbsp;<a href="http://www.diylife.com/2010/12/17/power-tools-equipment-rent-buy/" target="_blank">this is a good guide</a>&nbsp;for determining whether to rent or buy a power tool.<br /><br />You also might be able to find a store in your area that sells recycled materials at a deep discount. New Jersey, for instance, has&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greendemolitions.com/index.html" target="_blank">Green Demolitions</a>, which recycles and sells luxury fixtures, appliances and other materials from demolished homes and commercial surplus. You might also looks up the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.habitat.org/restores" target="_blank">Habitat for Humanity ReStore</a>&nbsp;in your area for used appliances, fixtures and tools.<br /><br /><strong>...Or Don't Buy at All</strong><br /><br />Hey, you know what's better than paying less? (You know the answer to this one.)<br /><br />That's right: Paying nothing at all.<br /><br />Free is better than cheap, and there's a surprising amount of "free" going around in the DIY world.<br /><br />"I always try to get things for free before going to Lowes or Home Depot," says Melissa Massello, founder of DIY and budget living site&nbsp;<a href="http://www.shoestringmag.com/" target="_blank">Shoestring Magazine</a>. "People only want to make one run to the home improvement store, so they buy more than they need."<br /><br />And when they find themselves with a bunch of leftover bricks and tiles that they can't use, you may be able to benefit. Massello uses sites like Freecylce and Craigslist to find people looking to unload useful supplies.<br /><br />"A lot can be done with scraps, and people have extras from projects they've already done," she says. "People are giving away bricks, rocks, compost, plants, pallets." She recounts one time when she saw someone giving away antique slate tiles that would normally cost a pretty penny per square foot.<br /><br /><span>If you're planning to start work this weekend, you might not have time to round up a bunch of free material on short notice. But if you're willing to spend some time doing your homework and monitoring Craigslist, you'll be surprised at how much free stuff you can find.</span></p><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-save-on-home-improvement-2013-7#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/neverwet-waterproofing-spray-video-2013-6This Awesome Spray Will Waterproof Anything [VIDEO]http://www.businessinsider.com/neverwet-waterproofing-spray-video-2013-6
Fri, 28 Jun 2013 16:34:00 -0400Robert Ferris
<p>Rust-Oleum has a new <a href="http://www.rustoleum.com/product-catalog/consumer-brands/neverwet/neverwet-kit">spray product</a> called NeverWet that will waterproof anything, leading the very impressed folks at Buzzfeed to declare that "science is the real witchcraft."</p>
<p>Neverwet works on soft porous surfaces as well as hard ones, and even on very soft porous ones like bread or cotton, they show. It will make red wine roll right off your Care Bear.</p>
<p>The product contains acetone (nail polish remover) and liquid petroleum gas, and a few additional "magic" ingredients like "silicone, and siloxanes, Dimethyl-" and silica. You spray it on in a two-step process, which creates a "hydrophobic" layer on the surface. This repells water, making liquids roll right off.</p>
<p>We have to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vK2JIht0iUU" target="_blank">agree with Buzzfeed</a>, it is pretty magical:</p>
<p><object style="line-height: 1.5em;" width="800" height="450"><embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/vK2JIht0iUU?version=3&amp;hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="450" width="800" /></object></p>
<p>But you shouldn't actually spray it on bread. If you eat it you will get serious brain damage. The waterproofing kit can be bought for about $60.</p>
<p>Here's another video from <a href="http://www.rustoleum.com/product-catalog/consumer-brands/neverwet/neverwet-kit" target="_blank">the people at Rust-Oleum</a>:</p>
<p><object width="800" height="450"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/_4PShebMF4Y?hl=en_US&amp;version=3" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/_4PShebMF4Y?hl=en_US&amp;version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="450" width="800" /></object></p><p><strong>Find Us On Facebook —&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/BusinessInsiderScience" >Business Insider: Science</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/neverwet-waterproofing-spray-video-2013-6#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/most-expensive-diy-home-repair-mistakes-2013-610 Common And Costly Home Repair Mistakes http://www.businessinsider.com/most-expensive-diy-home-repair-mistakes-2013-6
Tue, 18 Jun 2013 13:51:00 -0400Pat Curry
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/51c07314eab8eabc3b000009-480-/tool-time.png" border="0" alt="tool time" width="480" /></p><p>The first thing any savvy do-it-yourselfer should take into account when considering a new project is that it will probably take twice as much time and three times as much money as you thought.</p>
<p>Or maybe it's three times as long and twice as much money.</p>
<p>Either way, there's a good reason why it's true: DIYers make mistakes, so we asked home-improvement experts around the country for the most common mistakes a home handyman might make -- and how to avoid them.</p>
<p><strong>Not taking out the required permits</strong><br />Considered a bother at best by many DIYers, permits actually serve a greater purpose than just raising money for the government. "People in permitting offices aren't evil," says Lou Manfredini, the official Ace Hardware "Helpful Hardware Man."</p>
<p>"They're there to make sure the job is done right and you don't hurt yourself." Plus, for some jobs, such as putting in a wood stove, you need proof of the permit or your insurance carrier won't cover it. Not sure if your job requires a permit? The rule of thumb is that you need one for anything larger than painting and wallpapering. It doesn't hurt to call the building department and ask.<br /><br /><strong>Starting a job without the necessary supplies</strong><br />Nothing slows down a job more than not having all the materials you need.</p>
<p>Manfredini says the reason the pros can do what they do is that they buy quality tools. "There's always a bargain bin," he says. "It's not a wise investment. You lose time and money."</p>
<p>So make sure to research the tools you'll need in advance of the job.</p>
<div style="overflow: hidden; color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;"><strong>Inadequate preparation of the job site</strong></div>
<div style="overflow: hidden; color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;"><strong></strong><br />If you do a small addition, suppliers will be delivering materials.</div>
<div style="overflow: hidden; color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<p>You don't want them out of order or exposed to the weather while you are working, says Ed Del Grande, author of "Ed Del Grande's House Call" and formerly host of the DIY Network's "Warehouse Warriors" show.</p>
<p>Beware: They could be stolen if they're not properly stored. (If you have a septic tank, make sure you know where it is. If a supplier delivering materials in a heavy truck drives over it, you could be looking at a cracked tank. Yuck.)<br /><br /><strong>Skimping on materials</strong></p>
<p>Barbara Kavovit, a do-it-yourself guru and designer of the DIYVA collection of tools and accessories for Macy's, says she often sees DIYers use 1/4-inch drywall for building walls instead of the minimum 5/8 inch or 3/4 inch if you want a good sound barrier.</p>
<p>The same rule applies to plywood for subfloors. Go with 3/4 inch.</p>
<p>It creates a much stronger floor, especially if you're installing wood floors over them.<br /><br /><strong>Using the wrong paint</strong></p>
<p>One of the biggest DIY projects around, painting can make a place look great.</p>
<p>Manfredini says flat paint should only be used for ceilings because it's usually not as washable as paints with an eggshell or satin finish.</p>
<p>On outdoor decks, "sun and rain tear the heck out of the wood," he says. Clear sealers don't block the UV rays, and they peel. Use a linseed oil-based stain -- it drives the pigment into the wood and preserves it.<br /><br /><strong>Improper preparation of walls for paint</strong></p>
<p>A good, quality paint job is 90 percent preparation, Manfredini says.</p>
<p>Clean the walls, sand them and patch any holes before you paint. A coat of primer or stain blocker is advisable if you're trying to cover over oil-based paint, stains or peeling paint, or if you're painting a lighter color over a darker color.<br /><br /><strong>Unsafe job conditions</strong></p>
<p>Nothing diminishes your return on investment like a trip to the emergency room.</p>
<p>Wear safety goggles when using power tools or working with drywall or wood; wear hard hats when you're working under other people on scaffolding; and open some windows when you're painting or staining, or stripping old finishes off of floors or walls, Del Grande says.</p>
<p>And don't wear loose-hanging clothing, especially when using power tools. Wear gloves when carrying wood, metal and rock, or when hammering, and wear a nail or tool pouch to prevent damage to your floors and more importantly, the feet of people and pets.<br /><br /><strong>Inaccuracy</strong></p>
<p>Successful DIYers live by this rule: Measure twice, cut once.</p>
<p>It's so important for things such as building walls, hanging drywall or cutting baseboards, countertops or pipe. If you're going to err, err on the side of too long. You can always make something shorter; you can't make it longer.</p>
<p>Spackle can cover only up to a 1/8-inch seam.<br /><br /><strong>Working beyond one's limits</strong></p>
<p>Del Grande won't work on a roof; yours might be plumbing or electrical work.</p>
<ul class="slideList">
<li>Don't stand on the top steps of ladders.</li>
<li>Don't try to work beyond your reach.</li>
</ul>
<p>Ladder accidents send more than 240,000 people to the emergency room every year, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.<br /><br /><strong>Failure to get a clue</strong></p>
<p>You don't want to start to learn how to do a project on your own house.</p>
<p>If you have a friend who is a contractor or an experienced DIYer, offer your assistance on one of his projects so you can learn. No one will turn away free labor.</p>
<p>If you need to remove a supporting wall, have an engineer look at it to see what kind of beam you need to replace it. "If you have a saw in your hand and have a question about what you're doing," Del Grande says, "stop. Follow that little voice in your head."</p>
</div><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/crooklyn-home-sells-for-17million-2013-6" >'Crooklyn' Home Sells For 17 Million</a></strong></p>
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